travel trailer camping gear

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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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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The Best RV Accessories, According to Experts

Some RVers are driven to the open road by minimalism, carrying only what can be fit in their modest Class B or C recreational vehicle. Other RVers — like well-heeled retirees or those traveling with kids — expect a mobile home to be as luxuriously appointed as any built on a concrete foundation. Their glamped-up fifth wheels and tour-bus-like Class A’s are rolling mini-mansions, furnished with top-of-the-line kitchen and bath accessories. A third set of RVers do it (at least somewhat) for the ’gram, tricking out their retro-cool teardrop trailers, polygonal towables, and #vanlife campers with kitschy lifestyle gear. Curious what products they deem worthy of schlepping across the country, we asked 11 seasoned RVers to highlight the goods they never leave home without.

The best camping chairs

The zero-gravity recliner is wildly popular with the RV set. Steve Johnson of Boondocker’s Bible says it’s “effectively a folding chaise longue, but much more comfortable.” RVBlogger ’s Mike Scarpignato agrees, admitting it’s the only lounger he’s ever fallen asleep in. Frank and Grainne Foley of The Roving Foleys , also big fans, prefer their zero-gravity chairs with side caddies — ideal for holding drinks and cell phones.

Sheena Armstrong of Mavis the Airstream says Bliss Hammocks makes a top-of-the-line zero-gravity recliner: “They aren’t the prettiest to look at, but they’re hands down the best chair for cloud watching and stargazing.”

Marc and Julie Bennett of RVLove appreciate that this foldable chair comes with a storage bag for easy transport. But what really makes it stand out is the built-in lumbar support. “It’s great for people with back issues, or those who want to avoid them,” say the couple. “You have to sit in one to appreciate the difference.”

The best camping tables

Scarpignato is a big fan of this portable table because it is “light, compact, and easy to set up and store.” It holds four drinks and has a shelf for stashing a flashlight, Bose speaker, and other campfire essentials.

The Foleys like this table because “it’s sturdy but folds down flat,” making storage a breeze.

The best portable fire pit

Balking at the notion of a gas fire? When you travel full time, “you get sick of the campfire smell always sticking to your clothes and hair,” says Jason Miller of the Getaway Couple . “A propane fire allows you to quickly start a fire, enjoy it, then turn it off and head inside.” He wasn’t the only RVer to rave about the Outland brand. Aaron and Lauren Grijalva of The Wanderpreneurs called the Firebowl their all-time best purchase because RVers needn’t worry about fire bans in campgrounds nor purchasing local wood. Seasoned RVer Tom Mesereau also likes how it fits under his rig and runs on a basic propane tank.

The best portable grill

All of Johnson’s RV pals love this grill. “It’s a bulky propane cooker, but it has emerged as a great way to cook outdoors. You can grill or fry, and breakfasts come out awesome,” he says.

The best outdoor lights

“These are made of durable plastic, so we don’t have to worry about breaking glass with all the moving we do,” the Grijalvas say. “We hang them at every campsite we can.”

The best awning

“Even with a large rig, you want to be able to expand your living space to the outside,” the Foleys say. “After all, we didn’t choose this life to stay inside.” The family likes how quickly this zippable awning can be disconnected and rolled up should a storm suddenly roll in. It also blocks “a tremendous amount of sunlight, making a nice shaded area” for relaxing.

The best patio mat

Kelly Beasley, co-founder of Camp Addict , says this water-resistant mat is “king at allowing sand to fall through so it doesn’t come into your RV.” The Bennetts concur. They’ve tested half a dozen cheaper mats over the years but say the double-layered mesh mat from CGear “significantly reduces” the amount of fine sand that gets tracked into their RV. They also like that it’s lighter and more compact, and comes with “a handy carry bag for easy transport and storage.”

The best doormat

In addition to a 9-by-12-foot outdoor patio mat, this grass mat is used by Scarpignato to scrub his shoes before entering his camper. “It keeps the RV floors much cleaner,” he says.

The best showerhead

Switching out the showerhead in your RV is one of the easiest and best upgrades a new owner can make. This handheld model, which includes multiple spray patterns, offers “excellent pressure while not wasting water,” says Beasley.

The best bathtub if you have toddlers in tow

“While some RVs come with little bathtubs, ours didn’t,” says Boundless Bakers ’ Jessica Baker, a full-time RVer with two small children. “So we got creative and decided to get an inflatable swimming pool and use it as a bathtub. It fits in the shower perfectly and gives the kids a nice, deep bath to play in and get clean.”

The best toilet paper

“RVs generally use a specific type of toilet paper made for holding tanks,” says Johnson. “This kind dissolves rapidly and doesn’t get caught up in the drain valves. Other brands feel like football-stadium quality; this is the softest and most comfortable.”

The best way to keep an RV bathroom smelling fine

RVs are small spaces, Beasley notes wryly. “How ’bout s’mores fragrance?” she suggests.

The best RV storage solutions

“No matter the size of the RV, there never seems to be enough storage space,” says Ashley Mann of RVinspiration . “Putting vertical space to use is a good way to solve that problem.”

“Mixing bowls take up so much space, so a good stackable set is paramount,” say the Foleys. “This set includes stacking measuring cups as well.”

The best unbreakable glassware

“These versatile 12-ounce stemless-wineglass tumblers are vacuum-insulated and spillproof,” note the Bennetts. “They keep cold drinks icy cold and hot drinks hot, and come in a variety of fun colors, so everyone in your RV can have their own and not get drinks mixed up.”

The best trash receptacle

Mann also recommends this collapsible recycling/trash bin because it stakes to the ground. Just don’t leave it outside in bear country, she warns.

The best vacuum cleaner

The Grijalvas “love, love, love ” this vacuum because it’s compact and breaks down for easy storage. The Foleys second that opinion, adding how the “super-powerful” sucker “gets into all of the nooks and crannies” of an RV while fitting nicely into a corner beside their slide out.

The best RV gadgets

“These have been a game changer for us,” says Armstrong. “We can zip around campgrounds and parks, and they easily fold up for storage.”

“A drone is a really fun camping toy,” says Johnson. “You can scout out better camping sites, look for hiking trails, and get killer photographs of your camp.”

Cindy Scott of Cinders Travels highly recommends purchasing an RV-specific GPS unit instead of relying on free Google Maps. “Travel days are nerve-racking enough,” she says. Using a GPS that factors in an RV’s exact height and length when steering you from point A to point B “takes quite a load off your mind.”

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25 Must-Have RV Camping Gadgets (2024)

The rv lifestyle is better with these must-have camping gadgets this massive guide will help you find gifts for your rv friends and family.

• 1 The RV Lifestyle is better with these must-have camping gadgets! This massive guide will help you find gifts for your RV friends and family!
• 2.1 #1 TickKey Removal Key
• 2.2 #2 MPOWERD Luci Outdoor Inflatable Solar Lantern
• 2.3 #3 Mophie Powerstation
• 2.4 #4 Midland LXT500VP3 2-Way Radios
• 2.5 #5 A2S Survival Paracord Bracelet
• 2.6 #6 J5 Tactical V1-Pro Flashlight
• 2.7 #7 Tractive GPS Dog Tracker & Health Monitoring Collar
• 2.8 #8 X-Plore Gear 3-in-1 Multifunction Survival Tool
• 2.9 #9 Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight
• 2.10 #10 EDC Survival Kit
• 2.11 #11 Resqme Original Car Escape Tool
• 2.12 #12 Leatherman Multitool
• 2.13 #13 Portable LED-Light and Fan
• 2.14 #14 Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillow
• 2.15 #15 Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Patio Shield
• 2.16 #16 Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller
• 2.17 #17 Portable Solar Charger Power Bank
• 2.18 #18 weBoost Drive X RV Cellular Amplifier
• 2.19 #19 JBL Flip Bluetooth Speaker
• 2.20 #20 Level Mate Pro
• 2.21 #21 Countertop Ice Machine
• 2.22 #22 Stanley Battery Jumper
• 2.23 #23 Water Pump for 5-Gallon Water Jug
• 2.24 #24 Portable Neck Fan
• 2.25 #25 Rechargeable Hand Warmers
• 3 Curious about the gear, gadgets, accessories, and RV products Mike & Jennifer use and recommend?

In the olden days, camping was pretty simple: a tent, sleeping bag, compass, and some other basic items, and you were ready to go. Today, there are so many camping gadgets available that it’s hard to know which ones are really life-changing and which are excessive. 

Ranging in the definition of “necessity,” here are a bunch of RV camping gadgets that we love based on our own experience or recommended by others in our RV Lifestyle Community .

With only a couple of exceptions, most of these are fairly inexpensive. And MANY have been highlighted during on of our Amazon Live Shopping events ! We enjoy presenting some of the items we use on our RV adventures. I'd love to see you there for our next one! Click the Follow button, and Amazon will notify you when we go live.

25 Must-Have RV Camping Gadgets

Here’s our list of 25 must-have camping gadgets. They are in no particular order. We love and use many of these, and the rest were highly recommended by members of our RV Lifestyle Facebook Group!

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#1 TickKey Removal Key

Camping in the woods means you and your pets will likely encounter ticks. The TickKey products are great for easy and quick tick removal. 

We always keep them in the RV and often toss one in our backpack when going on a hike. These TickKeys are one of our main recommendations from How to Keep Ticks Off Dogs & Out of Your RV .

#2 MPOWERD Luci Outdoor Inflatable Solar Lantern

We have several of these solar lanterns, and they are awesome!

Rather than worrying about running out of batteries, you just place these in sunlight during the day, and they’ll produce light all night. 

We generally always have them on hand, especially if we’re boondocking . 

#3 Mophie Powerstation

This is one of my favorite must-have RV camping gadgets.

I always keep one fully charged and handy. There’s enough energy with a full charge to charge my laptop once or my smartphone three times. 

Plus, you don’t have to worry about running a vehicle battery down charging cellular devices. 

#4 Midland LXT500VP3 2-Way Radios

Two-way radios are truly a must-have camping gadget that everyone should invest in!

Jennifer and I have a pair of these that we use when hiking or when we simply need to communicate from a distance. We’ve found this specific model to be very reliable, so I’d recommend them to anyone. 

One of our most common uses is when backing into a camping site. Instead of relying on hand signals in the mirror, Jennifer uses the walky-talky to tell me left or right or STOP! That's why we include walkie-talkies in our “Backing Up an RV” Learner’s Kit .

#5 A2S Survival Paracord Bracelet

This is a must-have camping gadget that could potentially save your life. It’s a cool all-purpose tool that you conveniently wear on your wrist.

If you do a great deal of hiking deep into the woods, then you should definitely check these out!

It has a built-in compass, fire starter, whistle, emergency knife, and yards of paracord you can use as a rope. It's a tool you hope never to need but should definitely have.

#6 J5 Tactical V1-Pro Flashlight

This is my favorite flashlight, and I always keep one handy! It has LED bulbs, 300 Lumens, and has three modes. 

Not only is it bright, but it’s a great flashlight to carry in your pocket because of its small size. 

#7 Tractive GPS Dog Tracker & Health Monitoring Collar

This is a must-have camping gadget for anyone who camps with their dogs. As most of you know, Jennifer and I bring our boy Bo on every camping trip. Though he’s well-trained and won’t venture far away from us, we don't like to take any chances. 

If you’re camping with your beloved dog , then do yourself a favor and invest in a GPS dog tracker. On the off chance that your dog gets loose or spooked and runs away, it’ll be much easier to find him in the strange location. 

This Tractive GPS tracker requires a subscription (starting at $5/mo), which we think is well worth the peace of mind it brings us. Not to mention its value if Bo really does get lost!

#8 X-Plore Gear 3-in-1 Multifunction Survival Tool

The X-Plore 3-in-1 is another must-have gadget for the survivalist-minded camper.

It's important to know how to start a fire without matches , and this tool helps with that. Plus, it has an emergency whistle and a compass. 

#9 Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight

This is one bright headlamp! It has 165 lumens, and we love it! In fact, Jennifer and I both have one of these. 

We use them even just walking around the campsite at night and pack them in our hiking packs.

#10 EDC Survival Kit

An EDC Kit is an “Every Day Carry” kit that can work as an emergency survival kit. They usually include survival gear items, like medical supplies, fishing tools, folding cutting devices, poncho, and other excellent survival items.

If you looked at the previous survival gear items on this list and said, “I need that and that and that…” then you might as well just get this. It comes with those items and more.

#11 Resqme Original Car Escape Tool

Okay, this isn't directly related to camping, but it is related to all the driving you do to go camping! We've seen too many accidents on the road in the hundreds of thousands of miles we've RVed to not have these.

We keep one in the RV and our passenger car and one on our keychain. In fact, I made sure each of my loved ones have one. 

This tool will cut vehicle seatbelts and break windows. Even if we don't get in an accident ourselves, it gives us the ability to help others we come across.

#12 Leatherman Multitoo l

A multitool can come in very handy when traveling. It can even help save a life! 

Whether you need to open a can of food for survival or cut a wire that no longer serves a purpose, this handy device does it all. 

The Leatherman Signal has 19 tools in one! Not only does it have a cutting device, but it comes with pliers, wire cutters, hammer, saw, bottle and can openers, and a diamond-coated sharpener. 

Talk about a great tool to throw in your RV drawer! 

#13 Portable LED-Light and Fa n

These little devices really come in handy! Not only can they provide light where you need it. They are also a fan to keep you cool on stuffy camping evenings.

Use the light for up to 37 hours without having to change batteries. 

They are small and compact to easily store when traveling. 

#14 Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Pillo w

Never get a bad night of sleep again while camping! This excellent camping pillow is 100% polyester memory foam to conform to your body. 

Lightweight and portable, the small pillow opens to a 12 x 16 inch rectangle. The medium expands to a 14 x 18 inch size for the ultimate in comfort. 

When you are done using it, compress it back down to fit into its waterproof stuff sack.  It's a great option for an RVer's stargazing kit !

Did it get dirty while camping? When you get home, machine wash it and dry.

#15 Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Patio Shield

Thermacell products are fuel-powered technology that uses heat-activated repellent to keep bugs at bay. They are sometimes called a  Thermacell lantern  or repellent mat. They create a scent-free and invisible bug barrier.

They are powered by small gas canisters that give portable, cordless heat to a metal grill. The repellent mat sits on top of the heated grill and disperses the repellent into the air. That is what provides the zone of protection from mosquitos.

Some Thermacell devices can require a 12-hour refill, while others can last up to 90 hours!

#16 Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller

This is a smaller, more portable version of the Thermacell Patio Shield. They are both supposed to cover a 15-foot zone, but I'd recommend the patio shield for your campsite, and this portable one for your hiking, fishing, etc.

It comes with a belt clip, as well as a 12-hour fuel cartridge, and three 4-hour repellent mats. It repels mosquitoes without DEET sprays or harsh odors and has a 2-year warranty with registration.

#17 Portable Solar Charger Power Bank

This is a solar-powered version of the Mophie Powerstation we listed at the beginning. It's a great external backup battery pack in case you don't have access to any electricity.

It's highly durable, waterproof, and portable, so you can pop it into your hiking pack. It also has a 2-LED flashlight and compass, which are a nice bonus.

#18 weBoost Drive X RV Cellular Amplifier

Okay, this gadget is expensive. But it's the best in its class.

I work from the road, so having solid cellular coverage is essential, but it’s not always possible with just our carrier alone. 

This is why we use this weBoost cellular amplifier, which is geared to the RVer. These devices boost cellular signals , and with the one I use, I have coverage pretty much everywhere I go. 

They have lots of models from which to choose, and I can confidently recommend this brand because I’ve used several of their models throughout the years. The Drive X RV is the best of the bunch.

#19 JBL Flip Bluetooth Speaker

This is one of our must-have camping gadgets for enjoying life on the road. The speaker is very versatile, waterproof, and has great sound quality. 

We use it mainly to listen to podcasts and music, but recently we started using it for the audio when we talk to our family at home via FaceTime. It's also handy when streaming movies over our laptop or tablet.

#20 Level Mate Pr o

Make leveling easy with the LevelMate PRO! It takes the frustrating guesswork out of leveling your RV. 

Use your smartphone to help you find the most level camping spot without ever leaving your vehicle! Install the device ahead of time, and then use an app on your phone to see how to level your RV is from both directions. 

This will come in handy when you are tired from driving and trying to set up your camping spot. 

Dramatically reduce your leveling time, and frustration, after a long day of driving. 

#21 Countertop Ice Machin e

Okay, okay, an icemkaer isn't necessarily a must-have but boy is it great to have in your RV! Especially if you're a big fan of ice-cold drinks after a long hike.

It also comes in handy if you need to stock an ice chest while camping. This countertop ice maker can start producing ice in as little as 8 minutes. It can produce up to 26 pounds of ice in one day!

I know that RV counter space is precious. But if you miss the luxury of having ice when on the road, this is the solution . For more options, check out these 7 Best Ice Makers for Camping .

#22 Stanley Battery Jumpe r

A portable jump starter can be a lifesaver when on the road. 

There may be a time that you forget to turn off your lights when stopping for a hike or in town at an event. Nothing is worse than getting back to your vehicle only to realize that you have a dead battery. 

Save yourself worry and hassle by keeping a portable jump starter in your RV. That way, you will not have to look for someone else to help you jumpstart your vehicle!

#23 Water Pump for 5-Gallon Water Ju g

Do you take large 5-gallon bottles of water when traveling? Don’t forget a pump! 

Pumps are lightweight and compact and make getting water from a 5-gallon jug very simple to do. 

As boondockers that lug their water everywhere, this pump is a great camping gadget to have. It's also ideal for RV winter camping , when you're not using your RV's water system.

#24 Portable Neck Fan

One way to stay cool while camping is to use a neck fan. You simply turn it on and place it around your neck. 

It will help keep your entire body cool. The best part is that it’s hands-free, so you can do whatever activity you want. 

#25 Rechargeable Hand Warmers

While the neck fans keep you cool, these hand warmers will keep you warm. Well, at least your hands while they're snug in your pockets.

Being rechargeable is a huge plus! You can use them again and again, reducing waste and avoiding running out of HotHands packs.

Curious about the gear, gadgets, accessories, and RV products Mike & Jennifer use and recommend?

On this  RV Lifestyle Travel blog , our  RV Podcast  and our  RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel,  we mention all sorts of RV-related products and gear that we use, So we created a special page that links to them. We update this all the time.   CLICK HERE to go to it directly. Have you caught one of our Amazon LIVE events yet? Just  go here and Follow us  – to be notified every time we go live.

Published on 2024-01-11

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

15 Responses to “25 Must-Have RV Camping Gadgets (2024)”

March 20, 2024at3:08 am , Neet And Angel said:

I totally agree with this list! As an RV owner, I can attest to the importance of having the right gadgets on hand. The portable power station is a game-changer for us, especially when we’re boondocking. And the solar panel mount is a must-have for maximum sun exposure. I’m definitely adding some of these to my wish list!

May 18, 2022at5:34 pm , drunk wineo said:

sounds like you need to tone down the wine consumption, 5 products are related to your alcoholism, not a good look

May 02, 2022at8:05 pm , 7 Great RV Kitchen Gadgets to Save Space said:

[…] 29 Must-Have Camping Gadgets for 2022 […]

May 02, 2022at6:15 am , 7 Great RV Kitchen Gadgets To Save Space | RV Lifestyle said:

January 31, 2022at5:50 pm , Claudia Glenn said:

Lots of good ideas. I may get my son the paratrooper cord bracelet for his birthday!

December 25, 2021at6:16 am , Merry Christmas! | RV Lifestyle said:

October 09, 2021at6:17 pm , Chef Dave said:

I just read thru your list of 29 must have items, above here. I implore you to look at the 1 star reviews of all of those products. I never look at 5 star reviews as I’m afraid many of those posters get some compensation for those glowing reviews. I always look at the 1 star reviews as they are the most truthful. It’s sad how much junk Amazon sells. It’s cheap crap from who knows where, mostly China I bet, I’d rather pay more for made in America products than what Amazon sells. I’m new to the Rv life, but well seasoned in being proactive in purchasing things I need.

January 16, 2024at12:16 am , Beth Gorton said:

I am a huge fan of Luci lights – keep one on the dash of every vehicle. Boondocking, I can use all evening, saving the battery for things besides reading in bed, knitting, etc. Being solar, I never have to worry about having spare batteries. They are well designed, well made, and waterproof.

March 14, 2021at8:33 pm , Brian Templeton said:

One further item could be added to to the must have survival list, that is the very rugged cylindrical steel mouth whistle like what used to be used by British policemen, blown hard, it can be heard for at least half a mile, and if one is not visible, it can help rescuers find you.

March 14, 2021at8:12 pm , Tara said:

A Merlitta pour over cone & brown filters are much more eco friendly & cheaper for coffee than using K Cups.

March 13, 2022at8:34 am , Michael McKie said:

Absolutely! Your cup of coffee will taste a lot better as well. We normally use a French press at home but use the one cup Keurig for camping – less cleanup. Now you have me thinking…

February 28, 2021at11:29 am , Jean hansard said:

I think you did an article on three ways to clean the black tank. I can’t find it, can you post it again? Thank you!

February 25, 2021at9:41 am , Stan Wutka said:

Must have item for us, Frig-A-Mate or that what it used to be called. We have been using these in our RV for over 40 years. It is a little battery operated fan, powered by 2 d cell batteries, that last 2 – 3 months. With the gravity type RV fridge air is circulated only when you open the door. This thing aids in cool downs, when you first turn it on. It helps equalizes the temp thru out the fridge. It prevents lettuce and other items from freezing. It doesn’t take care of all the issues of an RV type frig but I say improves things about 70 %. Here is a link to amazon, they are available at a lot of other places too. https://smile.amazon.com/Valterra-A10-2604-FridgeCool-Volt-9-1/dp/B0006MRQYU/ref=pd_sbs_4?pd_rd_w=0y1NS&pf_rd_p=c52600a3-624a-4791-b4c4-3b112e19fbbc&pf_rd_r=MFQE5R1X60BBY9N282DG&pd_rd_r=b663cf90-56f5-4ef1-908f-181064d4226d&pd_rd_wg=giSN0&pd_rd_i=B0006MRQYU&psc=1

February 25, 2021at5:00 pm , Thomas said:

Thanks Stan. We are ordering the fan tonight. Not for RV but for home refrigerator which is famous for freezing our lettuce.

February 25, 2021at9:34 am , Marcus said:

Remember, the headlamps are great but be courteous and turn them off or look down when you are approaching other walkers. The lights can be blinding. I don’t think you would shine a flashlight directly into someone’s face but that is what you are doing since the beam shines in the direction you are looking. Same etiquette applies with headlamps.

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RV Camping Accessories – 40 Must-Have Gadgets for RVers 2024 Edition

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Here are the most essential RV camping accessories in 2024. Whether you’re new to RVing or have been doing it for a while, you’ll probably find something on this list that will surprise you. We’ve even gotten input from our friends who tow trailers and fifth wheels to make this the most comprehensive resource we possibly could.

So, in no particular order (but organized by category), this is our complete list of must-have accessories for new RVers in 2024.

Table of Contents

General RV Camping Accessories – Technology

1. electrical management system (ems).

The electrical system in an RV isn’t made to withstand voltage drops and surges. That’s why an electrical management system (or EMS) is a must-have to protect your RV against damage.

You’ve probably heard about surge protectors, but those will ONLY do what the name implies – protect against a surge. An EMS, like this one from Progressive Industries , protects against high and low voltage, accidentally plugging into a 220v outlet (which is easy to do with a 30 amp plug), reverse polarity, AC frequency and open neutral. Read our full review of the Progressive Industries Portable EMS .

An EMS will cost more up front than a surge protector, but trust me: they’re worth it. Your RV is a big investment and it’s probably your home, too. This is great insurance to have against campgrounds with overloaded or poorly installed electrical outlets.

2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

The TST 507 Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an invaluable tool for any RV owner, particularly those who tow. This system monitors the pressure and temperature of your tires, providing crucial alerts if there are any sudden changes.

The importance of a TPMS like the TST 507 cannot be overstated. In scenarios where a tire blows out or loses pressure, it may not be immediately noticeable, potentially leading to further damage. With a TPMS, you’re alerted promptly, allowing you to address the issue quickly to try and prevent harm to your rims, or worse, extensive damage to your RV. Having this system in place adds a significant layer of safety and can save you from costly repairs and dangerous situations on the road. It’s not just a convenient gadget; it’s a crucial component of your RV’s safety equipment, regardless of the type of RV you own.

3. RV-Specific GPS

Navigating the roads in a motorhome or while towing a trailer presents unique challenges due to the increased height, length, and width of your vehicle. This is where a specialized RV GPS like the Garmin RV 795 becomes an essential tool for your travels. This device allows you to input your specific RV’s dimensions, ensuring that the GPS routes you away from roads and bridges that could be hazardous for your larger vehicle. It also provides alerts for upcoming hazards, such as steep grades, which are crucial for safe RV travel.

The importance of using an RV-specific GPS like the Garmin RV 795 cannot be understated, especially when considering the limitations of standard navigation software. General mapping apps like Google Maps are typically designed for standard-sized vehicles, and there are numerous accounts of these apps leading RVers onto narrow, winding roads or routes with low-clearance bridges.

When we traveled in our Class A motorhome , the Garmin RV GPS was indispensable. Not only was it tailored to the needs of RV travel, but it was also user-friendly, easily plugging into the 12v cigarette lighter for power. The convenience and safety it provided made it a non-negotiable part of our travel toolkit, ensuring we navigated the roads safely and efficiently.

4. Cell Phone Signal Booster & WiFi Repeater

Staying connected while on the road in your RV is essential, especially when you’re boondocking or parked far from traditional internet sources. To achieve this, two types of boosters – cell and WiFi – become indispensable tools in your connectivity arsenal.

Starting with the cell booster, a device like the WeBoost is a game-changer for remote internet access. It amplifies cell signals from any carrier, transforming weak, nearly unusable signals into robust connectivity. This is particularly crucial for those of us who run online businesses from the road. The boosted signal is rebroadcast inside your RV, allowing you to stay connected in the most remote locations. This can mean the difference between a signal so faint that it’s unusable, and the ability to run our online business while boondocking . For more detailed insights on cell boosters and to determine if it’s the right fit for you, check out our comprehensive post on Cell Boosters for RV .

In addition to the cell booster, a WiFi booster (or extender) combined with a repeater extends the range of available WiFi networks. This setup is perfect for RV parks where the best spots might be at the edge of the park, far from the WiFi tower. It also proves useful in urban areas, where you might want to tap into the WiFi of a local cafe while enjoying the peace and quiet of your RV. While we advocate supporting these businesses if you use their WiFi, the flexibility to work remotely from your vehicle often offers a quieter and more comfortable workspace. To learn more about enhancing your RV’s WiFi capabilities, don’t miss our detailed guide on how to Extend WiFi Range.

The setup we have is this WiFi desktop booster kit . Read our full post on how to Extend WiFi Range to learn more.

5. Satellite Communication Device

For those venturing into the backcountry or opting for dispersed camping in national forests , the absence of cell service is a common challenge. As highlighted in our article on RV safety and preparedness , unexpected accidents can occur in these remote areas. To ensure safety and peace of mind, investing in a satellite communication device is crucial. These devices allow you to text and receive texts anywhere you can get a satellite signal. You can also have pre-programmed texts like “Everything’s okay” that includes your GPS location. In an emergency, there is an SOS button you can push which will trigger an alert to emergency services to begin a search and rescue for you or anyone in your party who needs emergency assistance. You’ll also be able to communicate your condition via text with the emergency responders.

We recommend the Garmin GPSMAP 66i GPS and Satellite Communicator . Coupled with an annual recreation plan, this device is an invaluable tool for staying connected in areas beyond cellular reach.

Additionally, Garmin offers the inReach Mini 2 , a compact alternative to the GPSMAP 66i. This smaller device seamlessly pairs with your mobile device, providing access to maps and aerial imagery. Its lightweight and portable design make it an ideal choice for backpackers, hikers, and mountain bikers who require reliable communication without the bulk. Whether you’re on a remote RV adventure or traversing rugged trails, having a Garmin satellite communicator enhances your safety and ensures you’re never out of reach.

6. Garmin Smartwatch

For RVers who love exploring the great outdoors, whether it’s hiking through trails or boondocking in remote areas, a Garmin smartwatch is an essential gadget. One of its standout features is the GPS capability, which proves invaluable for navigation during outdoor adventures. This feature is particularly useful when you’re away from your RV, ensuring you can always find your way back or explore new areas without getting lost. Moreover, the ability to pair the Garmin smartwatch with devices like the Garmin inReach enhances your safety by keeping you connected even in the most isolated locations.

A Garmin smartwatch offers a suite of health and fitness tracking features, making it an indispensable tool for maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road. It can monitor your daily activities like steps taken, distance traveled, heart rate and even your sleep patterns (along with MUCH more). This is particularly beneficial for RVers, as it encourages a more active and health-conscious lifestyle, counteracting the sedentary nature of long drives. The watch’s ability to track fitness activities is not only great for those who regularly hike or bike but also for anyone looking to stay fit and healthy during their travels. By keeping tabs on your daily activity and health metrics, a Garmin smartwatch ensures that your adventures are not just about exploring new places, but also about taking care of your well-being, no matter where the road takes you.

I got the Garmin Tactix 7 and the tracking features motivated me to get back into the gym and start running. Since getting the watch, I’ve lost over 10 pounds, have gained muscle and am in much better shape. It’s like having your own personal coach on your wrist. Now, the Tactix 7 is one of their most expensive smartwatches and has almost every feature they offer in a watch along with preloaded TopoActive maps from your region and gives you free access to download additional maps from around the world.

If you’re not looking to break the bank, the Garmin Instinct has many of the same features but a more basic display, limited maps (more can be added at additional cost) and is a fraction of the price.

Battery life on most Garmin watches is measured in weeks and can be indefinite if you purchase the models with solar. I’ve tested mine and get about 2-3 weeks when using all of the features, tracking workouts, using the flashlight, GPS, etc.

7. Portable Solar Panels

If you boondock a lot, a portable solar panel or two can be very useful. Sure, you can install fixed solar panels on the roof of your rig, but portable panels have a lot of advantages. If it’s hot and you want to park in the shade, portable panels allow you to position just your solar panels in the direct sun while the shade keeps your RV nice and cool.

You can easily reposition them as the sun moves, so you’re always getting an optimal charge. Not to mention the fact that they are much easier to keep clean when they’re on the ground.

We started with Renogy portable panels and now use the Overland Solar panel , which we absolutely love (we actially have two that we run together). The Overland Solar panels are much more expensive but worth every penny. The ability to fold them up and store them just about anywhere is a game changer and their panels are much more efficient than the competitors.

8. Apps for RVing

Allstays consistently ranks high on our list of essential RV gadgets, and for good reason. This versatile app is a must for any type of RV travel, streamlining trip planning in remarkable ways. Its comprehensive features allow RVers to easily locate accommodations, as well as essential services like propane refills, dump stations, and fresh water sources while on the move. The flexibility and ease of use that Allstays brings to RV travel makes it a tool we frequently recommend for those looking to enhance their RVing experience.

GasBuddy, another must-have mobile app for RVers , offers a valuable resource for cost-effective travel. This free app provides real-time updates on gas prices across the United States and Canada, helping RVers find the most affordable fuel options. We regularly use GasBuddy to strategically plan our fuel stops, ensuring cost savings on every trip. The app allows users to view gas prices not only in their current location but also along their route and at their destination. This feature has been a game-changer in our cost management strategies for RV travel, a lesson we learned early in our journey. GasBuddy continues to be a crucial tool in our arsenal, contributing significantly to reducing our travel expenses.

9. Two-Way Radio

A set of handheld radios are great for helping you and your traveling companions communicate while you’re backing the RV into a spot, or if you’re driving two separate vehicles in an area with patchy cell signal. We used these quite a bit when we were in a motorhome towing a vehicle. The radio we had came with NOAA weather channels built-in which was very useful during the tornado warning .

10. Pet Safety Temperature Monitor

The Waggle Pet Monitor is an indispensable gadget for RVers who travel with pets. It’s designed to provide peace of mind by ensuring the safety and comfort of your animals when you’re out exploring. Operating on a cellular network, the Waggle Pet Monitor keeps an eye on the temperature inside your RV. It allows you to set specific temperature parameters that suit your pet’s needs. Should the interior of your RV become too hot or too cold, the monitor promptly sends alerts directly to your smartphone.

This level of monitoring is crucial, especially when relying on your RV’s heating or cooling systems in varying climates. Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or just stepping out for groceries, this device ensures that your pets remain in a safe and comfortable environment. For pet-owning RV enthusiasts, the Waggle Pet Monitor is not just a gadget; it’s a vital component of responsible pet care on the road.

General RV Camping Accessories – Outside the RV

11. roof vent cover.

An RV vent cover is a game-changer for RV enthusiasts and one of those RV accessories that you don’t realize you need until you have it. Having a vent cover installed on your RV allows you to leave your roof vents open, regardless of the weather conditions. This means you can keep your fans running during hot weather or while cooking, without the concern of rainwater seeping into your RV.

Additionally, a vent cover offers added protection against the sun’s harsh rays and prevents debris from clogging your vent screens. This not only extends the lifespan of your RV’s ventilation system but also enhances the overall comfort inside your RV.

We installed the Ultra Breeze Vent Cover in our Class A motorhome and then the Maxxair Max II Vent Cover in our Class B campervan.

If you want or need to replace your current vent fans, my recommendation would be to get the Maxxair MaxxFan Ventilation Fan which has a vent cover built into the fan. The Maxxair would be our choice for the best RV Vent Fan – read the full review here .

12. Leveling and Jack Pads

We went through three sets of Lynx plastic leveling blocks in a very short time as newbies. That was before we figured out a trick: use heavy duty rubber jack pads . The plastic leveling blocks sit on top of the pads and are protected from gravel or anything else that can damage them. We also used the pads under our jacks when we were parked on gravel or dirt. This prevents the jacks from sinking into mud if it rains.

13. Basic Set of Tools

I wrote a whole article on the tools we carry in our RV . It’s easy to go overboard with tools – I did this myself when we first started out – but having some basic tools and knowing how to use them will always serve you well.

14. Portable Air Compressor

Understanding the unique needs of RV tires is crucial, especially when it comes to maintaining the correct tire pressure. Many RVers initially think that a standard gas station air compressor will suffice for their needs. However, we quickly learned through our own experiences that this isn’t always the case. RVs, vans and trucks, with their larger, load-bearing tires, often require a higher PSI than typical passenger vehicle tires. This higher PSI requirement means that most air pumps at gas stations are not equipped to adequately fill RV tires. In fact, using a gas station compressor can sometimes result in a loss of PSI, rather than an increase.

That’s why investing in a VIAIR portable air compressor is a game-changer for RV owners. When considering an air compressor, it’s important to select a compressor that is specifically rated for the tire size and PSI requirements. VIAIR makes various size compressors for different types of truck and RV tires. The portable air compressor we had will work on all tires up to 150 PSI.

Owning a VIAIR compressor not only ensures that you can maintain optimal tire pressure for safe and efficient travel, but it also adds a level of convenience and independence to your RV journeys. No longer reliant on gas station air pumps, you can confidently handle your tire pressure needs wherever you are. We’ve also used ours on many occasions to help fellow RVers and motorists air up their tires on the side of the road.

15. Camping Stove

Even though we live in a very small space, we consider our Coleman camp stove essential. It’s great to be able to cook outside on a nice day, and it keeps messy or strong-smelling foods like bacon or fish outside our tiny indoor kitchen. They also make an adapter , so we can connect our stove to our large propane tanks without having to carry those little green bottles around.

If you have more storage than we do, a Weber portable grill might be more up your alley. Either way, it’s good to have a way to cook outside.

16. Dicor Lap Sealant

Dicor isn’t technically a gadget but it’s still extremely important to have on hand. Over time, the sealant on your roof will degrade and crack. Cracks in your roof can lead to water leaks when it rains, and water damage is dangerous to an RV.

We’ve had leaks in multiple RVs, and a little lap sealant in the offending areas puts an end to them quickly. While it’s a good idea to have your roof resealed every few years, having some dicor on hand to stop a leak before it does major damage can be worth its weight in gold.

If you currently have black sealant on your roof, make sure you get the black Dicor so the roof of your RV doesn’t start resembling a Zebra! Make sure to also have a basic caulk gun on hand in order to apply the Dicor.

17. Sewer Gate Valve

Dealing with RV sewer lines is a task many RVers are familiar with, especially those who have experienced the less-than-pleasant aspects of it. While traveling in our Class A RV, I quickly learned a common issue: the unwelcome surprise of getting splashed with sewer water when removing the cap from the sewer output of the RV. This often occurred due to the water that had leaked past the built in sewer valves during transit. Additionally, some of this water would end up running into the wet bay, leading to an unwanted and time-consuming cleaning task.

To resolve this issue and make the dumping process cleaner and more efficient, we turned to the Valterra twist-on waste valve . This simple yet effective device has maintained cleanliness during the dumping process. I found it so useful that I also installed it for the gray tank in our pop-up truck camper . The Valterra valve ensures that the connection is secure and leak-free, significantly reducing the chances of any messy splashes or spills. For RVers looking for a reliable solution to manage their sewer line more cleanly and effectively, the Valterra twist-on waste valve is an essential addition to your RV.

18. Drinking Water Hose

When it’s time to fill up your RV’s fresh water tank , you will want to use a hose that is rated for drinking water. The Zero-G hose is especially good, since it is lightweight, stores easily, and doesn’t kink.

While we love our 25 foot water hose , they do make a 50 foot water hose for those RVers who need the additional length to reach some of those challenging RV fill stations .

19. Water Pressure Regulator

Ensuring the safety of your RV’s plumbing system is crucial, and a water pressure regulator plays a vital role in this. High-pressure water, commonly found in city water connections, can cause significant damage by causing leaks within your RV’s water system. This is why it’s essential to use a water pressure regulator every time you connect your water hose to a city water source. Before purchasing a regulator, it’s a good idea to check if your RV already includes a built-in water pressure regulator. If not, a water pressure regulator is a small investment that can save you from costly repairs and ensure a worry-free experience when using city water connections during your travels.

20. Outdoor Camping Mat

An outdoor mat is a valuable addition to any camp set up, transforming from a convenient accessory in good weather to an absolute necessity in rainy conditions. When rain turns your campsite into a muddy mess, an outdoor mat can significantly minimize the amount of mud and moisture that gets tracked into your RV. Not only does it help in reducing the amount of dirt and debris brought inside, but it also enhances the overall comfort and cleanliness of your outdoor living space. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day or facing unexpected rain, an outdoor mat is an essential item that helps keep your RV and campsite clean and enjoyable.

21. Clear Sewer Dump Elbow

A clear elbow for your RV’s sewer hose is essential for effective waste management. It allows you to visibly monitor the waste flow during dumping, helping you identify any backups or blockages and ensuring your tanks are thoroughly flushed. This tool is not just about convenience; it’s crucial for maintaining your RV’s hygiene and preventing potential issues in the waste system.

22. Hose Splitter

Hose splitters are handy because you can connect your RV to the city water at a campsite and connect a second hose soyou can still rinse your muddy shoes off or fill a dog bowl outside. Make sure to get one that’s rated for drinking water.

General RV Camping Accessories – Inside the RV

23. handheld vacuum.

A good handheld vacuum is an invaluable tool for RVers. The nature of RV camping often means tracking dirt and other debris into your RV, which can quickly accumulate. This is especially true when traveling with dogs, where the need for regular cleaning becomes even more pronounced. Investing in a high-quality handheld vacuum is a must to be able to keep up with all of the dirt and hair that can find its way into your RV.

Our personal experience has led us to a handheld vacuum that we’ve grown to love. Its effectiveness and ease of use are so impressive that we find ourselves using it not only in our RV but also in our home. An added bonus for those who own Craftsman power tools (I love mine) is the compatibility of the batteries with this vacuum, offering a convenient and versatile cleaning solution. If you don’t already have a Craftsman battery, this is the set you’ll need (the vacuum runs much better on the 4 amp battery vs the smaller 2 amp versions).

24. Shower Shut-off Valve

Conserving water is a critical aspect of RVing, especially for those who spend nights without hookups. While showers are one of the biggest water consumers, we found a practical solution to this challenge. Initially, we joked about avoiding showers altogether when dry camping, but of course, that’s not feasible!

Our motorhome’s original shower head included a “pause” switch, but it proved tricky to operate with soapy hands. To address this, we installed a shower shut-off valve , which significantly improved the situation. This simple yet effective upgrade allows us to take “Navy showers,” drastically reducing water usage and enabling us to extend our off-grid stays. Not only does this valve help in conserving water, but it also maintains the water temperature. This means no more fiddling with the tap to find the perfect temperature each time we resume the shower. This small piece of equipment has become an indispensable part of our RV gear, enhancing both our water conservation efforts and overall shower experience while off the grid.

25. Multi-cooker

Kait has been perfecting the art of using the Instant Pot multi-cooker for years, and now it’s such a staple of our RV kitchen that it’s hard to imagine how we’d eat without it. The great thing about a multi-cooker is that you can save space by having one cooking gadget with multiple features. It’s a rice cooker, slow cooker and so much more all in one.

26. Berkey Water Purifier

The Travel Berkey water purifier has become an indispensable gadget in our RV lifestyle, offering the peace of mind that comes with access to safe drinking water wherever our travels take us. This purifier’s ability to filter water effectively allows us to comfortably venture to a wide range of locations, confident in the knowledge that we can always have clean water to drink.

However, we also advocate the use of an inline water filter alongside the Berkey. Inline RV water filters are iconic in the world of RV camping gear, and they serve an important purpose. While these filters may not remove chemicals, bacteria, and viruses as comprehensively as the Berkey, they remove sediment and significantly improve the taste and overall quality of the water coming into your RV. This dual-filter approach ensures not only the safety of your drinking water but also enhances the everyday water usage experience, making it a recommended practice for any serious RVer.

For a more detailed review of RV water filters, check out our Water Filter article .

27. Scrubba Clothes Washing Bag

The Scrubba is a fantastic RV accessory to have when you need some fresh clothes, but don’t have access to a washing machine (or a pocket full of quarters). We’ve taken ours around the world and used it in RVs and hotel rooms alike.

While it doesn’t have the capacity to wash large loads, you can get a day’s worth of clothes in there. One trick if you’re out camping is to fill the Scrubba and let it sit in the sun for a while before washing your clothes.

28. RV Holding Tank Treatment

When we had a traditional RV black tank in the Class A RV, we used Happy Camper holding tank treatment . The product has no chemical smell and eliminated black tank odor without the use of formaldehyde.

Unfortunately Happy Camper cannot be shipped to states like California so another option we found that works great is the original holding tank treatment aka “the blue stuff.” It is scented and has formaldehyde in it but it absolutely works and what we use now.

General RV Camping Accessories – Miscellaneous

29. binoculars.

Exploring National Parks and immersing in the wilderness are fundamental aspects of our RV travel experience. Our visit to Yellowstone National Park highlighted the importance of carrying a quality pair of binoculars. We chose the Vortex Viper HDs and have been thoroughly impressed with their performance. Whether it’s for spotting wildlife at a distance or taking in the details of the stunning natural landscapes, these binoculars have greatly enhanced our outdoor adventures.

Carrying binoculars like the Vortex Viper HDs is especially crucial when RVing because of the unexpected wildlife encounters that often occur. These binoculars not only allow us to observe animals from a safe distance but also add an extra layer of enjoyment to our nature experiences. They have become an essential item in our RV gear, ensuring we never miss an opportunity to witness the beauty and wonder of the wildlife and scenery around us.

30. Bear Spray

Venturing into bear territory requires not just caution but also the right equipment, and bear spray is a crucial part of that. In some regions, carrying bear spray is more than just a recommendation—it’s a mandatory safety measure. We’ve been carrying Counter Assault bear spray for years on our trips through bear habitats. Fortunately, we’ve never had to use it.

For those planning cross-border adventures, it’s important to note the regulations regarding bear spray. As of this writing, you are permitted to bring bear spray into Canada, provided it’s explicitly labeled for that purpose. However, it’s essential to be aware that Canada has strict rules against bringing pepper spray or other self-defense sprays into the country.

Motorhome-Specific RV Accessories

Whether you have a Class A, B, or C, you may need some items specific to motorhomes. Here’s our list.

31. Spare Tire Carrier

Many motorhomes, surprisingly, do not come equipped with a spare tire or a designated mount for one, presenting a challenge for long-distance travelers and adventurers.

Our solution came in the form of the Roadmaster Spare Tire Carrier . This innovative product is a hitch-mounted carrier that is compatible with nearly every type of RV wheel/tire. It accommodates a wide range of tire sizes, from 16 inches up to 24.5 inches, making it a versatile and essential addition to your RV. The convenience of the Roadmaster carrier lies in its accessibility and ease of use, eliminating the need for strenuous lifting or awkward maneuvers to access the spare tire. It also has a built in receiver that allows for towing a car or attaching a bike rack or accessory.

32. RV Level

The Camco Camper/RV EZ Level revolutionized the way we leveled our Class A RV. What stands out most about this leveling system is its ability to level both axes of the RV simultaneously, providing fast and efficient leveling.

Additionally, the EZ Level’s illuminated indicator lights are a key feature that are not only easy to read but also clearly indicate the leveling status of the RV. When the lights turn green, you know your RV is perfectly level. If there’s a red light, it shows which side is lower, guiding you to make the necessary adjustments. This intuitive system allowed us to sometimes find naturally level campsites just by driving around and keeping an eye on the indicator lights. The combination of its quick, dual-axis leveling capability and the clear, bright lights made the Camco Camper/RV EZ Level an essential and user-friendly tool in our RVing adventures.

Towable-Specific RV Accessories

We’ve never had to tow an RV, so we got input from some friends who live full-time in travel trailers and fifth wheels to round out our list of RVing gadgets.

33. Weight Distribution Hitch

A weight distribution hitch can make all the difference when it comes to stability while towing. It takes the tongue weight of the trailer, which would normally rest on the very rear of the tow vehicle on one single point (the ball hitch) and distributes it more evenly onto both axles.

The Equal-i-zer weight distribution hitch significantly enhances stability while towing by evenly distributing the trailer’s tongue weight across both axles of the tow vehicle. This design not only stabilizes the tow vehicle and trailer but also greatly reduces sway. One of the standout features of the Equal-i-zer hitch is its Integrated 4 Point Sway Control, which offers resistance to trailer sway.

Additionally, the Equal-i-zer hitch’s design effectively keeps the front of the tow vehicle on the road, promoting safer steering, braking, and overall sway control. The Equal-i-zer hitch is compatible with nearly all bumper-pull trailers, including RV, horse, cargo, boat, and utility trailers, even those with surge brakes. With a variety of shank sizes available, it provides a custom fit for almost any receiver height.

34. LevelMatePRO and Anderson Levelers

The Camco leveler we recommended is particularly effective for motorhomes. Its main advantage lies in the fact that you can see the device’s lights from inside your vehicle, using them as a guide to position your RV perfectly. For those in towable RVs or trailers, the LevelMatePRO offers a similar solution but with a modern twist. It utilizes a mobile app, allowing you to monitor your leveling process directly from the cab of your truck. This means you don’t have to keep moving between your truck and trailer to check if you’ve achieved a level position.

When combined with Anderson levelers , this system significantly speeds up the leveling process. The LevelMatePRO’s app-based guidance, coupled with the efficiency of Anderson levelers, transforms what could be a lengthy manual task into a quick, precise, and hassle-free operation. This setup not only saves time but also ensures that you can easily achieve a level position for your trailer.

35. Backup Camera

The Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System with 4.3-Inch Monitor is an essential upgrade for towable RVs, where a backup camera isn’t typically pre-installed like in newer motorhomes. This system offers a wide-angle view, making it incredibly useful not only for smoothly backing into campsites but also for enhancing safety on highways.

With its 4.3-inch monitor, the Furrion Vision S provides a clear and expansive view of what’s happening near the bumper of your trailer or fifth wheel. This feature is invaluable for changing lanes on busy roads, allowing you to see your surroundings more clearly and avoid blind spots. The wireless design ensures easy installation and a clutter-free setup. Overall, the Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System represents a significant step towards safer, more confident driving and maneuvering for any towable RV owner.

36. Electric Drill and Scissor Jack Adaptor

Manually lowering and raising scissor jacks can be a strenuous task, often resulting in raw and sweaty palms. To avoid this hassle, consider using an adapter for your electric drill . This simple yet ingenious RV gadget transforms what could be a laborious process into an effortless one. By attaching the adapter to your drill, you can quickly and easily raise and lower your manual jacks without any physical strain. This inexpensive tool is a must-have for RV owners, making the setup and breakdown of your campsite a breeze and saving you significant time and effort.

If you don’t already have a drill, the Craftsman V20 Cordless Drill/Driver Kit is worth getting, especially if you’re planning to invest in the previously mentioned Craftsman vacuum, you can interchangeably use the same battery and charger between the two devices. This compatibility offers a seamless and efficient experience for various tasks around your RV.

37. Torque Wrench

Regularly checking the torque on your wheel lugs is a smart practice for maintaining your RV’s safety and reliability, especially if you often have long intervals between trips or have recently had your tires rotated. To facilitate this, it’s advisable to carry a torque wrench in your RV. Having a torque wrench on hand allows you to periodically inspect and tighten the wheel lugs as needed. Ensuring that the lugs are correctly torqued is crucial for safe driving, as it prevents the wheels from becoming loose or unstable on the road. Keeping a torque wrench in your RV toolkit is a simple yet effective step towards ensuring your vehicle’s wheels are always securely fastened and road-ready.

38. Heavy-Duty Chocks

Investing in a high-quality set of heavy-duty rubber chocks is especially important if you have a long or heavy trailer. While we haven’t experienced towing firsthand, it’s clear that ensuring your trailer remains stationary once parked is crucial. Heavy-duty rubber chocks provide that essential stability and security, preventing any unwanted movement of the trailer.

These chocks are not just for trailers, though. They are also incredibly useful for any RV, particularly when parking on a hill or in situations where you need that extra bit of safety assurance. By placing these robust chocks under your wheels, you add an additional layer of safety, ensuring that your RV stays exactly where you want it, regardless of the terrain or incline. This simple precaution can make a significant difference in maintaining the safety and security of your RV when parked.

39. X-Chocks

X-Chocks that come with a locking feature serve dual purposes for trailers with a double axle: they enhance safety and act as a theft deterrent. These chocks are designed to fit snugly between the wheels, effectively preventing any tire movement while your trailer is parked. This is particularly important for maintaining stability and safety, especially in conditions such as high wind or when there’s a lot of movement inside the trailer.

The added advantage of X-Chocks with a locking mechanism is their role in theft prevention. By securing the chocks in place, they not only keep the trailer steady but also make it more challenging for anyone to unlawfully move or tow the trailer. This combination of stability enhancement and theft deterrence makes lockable X-Chocks a valuable investment for any trailer owner seeking to increase both the security and functionality of their vehicle.

40. RV Hitch Lock

Hitch locks, such as the Proven Industries Trailer Coupler Lock , are a vital component of RV and trailer security. While no lock can guarantee absolute theft prevention, a high-quality hitch lock like the Proven Industries model offers a significant deterrent to potential thieves.

The Proven Industries Trailer Coupler Lock, with its robust design and changeable puck lock, acts as a formidable first line of defense. Its construction is designed to withstand various attacks, making it a challenging obstacle for opportunistic thieves. This makes it difficult for someone to quickly hitch your trailer and drive away, especially when parked in less secure or unmonitored areas.

Investing in a hitch lock is a simple, yet effective tool in your overall security strategy, offering reassurance and added safety for your trailer or RV.

There you have it – our list of the best RV gadgets for RV living. If we missed anything that you consider essential, let us know in the comments. We’re always interested in the latest and greatest gear and would love to know what you think are the best RV gadgets for newbies, or even just the best RV gadgets in 2024.

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23 thoughts on “rv camping accessories – 40 must-have gadgets for rvers 2024 edition”.

Hi Joe and Kait! We are retired nurses and just bought a Forest River Vibe. Your information is so valuable and we love learning all about the RV life, thanks to your experiences. Could you please send me a link to your recipes you make in the instapot? Thanks so much. K and D

Hi Katie! You can find some of the Instant Pot recipes here .

Do you have a recommendation for a motorcycle hitch rack? We have a Yamaha T7 so not light but not as heavy as a lot of bikes.

Yes, we have a Joe Hauler Deluxe cam-loc and it has a 600 lb weight limit which would be perfect for your bike. It locks into the hitch and prevents any wobble and it’s rock solid. We’ve done over 25k miles with it on the back of various campers and had zero issues. I would suggest giving Joe a call, letting him know what we recommend and see what he thinks given your vehicle (you’ll need to know your max tongue weight) and the bike weight. https://www.joehauler.com/camloc/camloc.shtml

Hi! Thanks for all your useful and well produced videos. While back, from your clips from Maine trip, I saw Kait was wearing a bug protection jacket. I do also have mosquito problem that hinders me from outdoor life. Would you tell me where I can get the jacket? It had a hood with built in mesh cover and side vent, I think. Thanks!

It’s the Elite Edition top and bottom by The Original Bug Shirt Company

Hi Russo’s

Not sure if you still have your Hymer Activ. If so I was curious about a few accessories. Looking for mat/rugs, seat covers (tan is going to get dirty fast). Any ideas?

Hey MarQ, we haven’t had the Aktiv for a few years, but we did include the accessories we used in this post. As for mats, the one we used in that van was from Costco and we’ve never used seat covers in our campers. This cleaner worked wonders on keeping the light color seats clean.

Hi I enjoy your videos I’ve been following you and your wife for a couple of years my question is what’s the name of the Garmin GPS device that you use thanks again

Here is the one we have: https://amzn.to/3jMYakR

Thank you for sharing this an amazing information. It will be a great source of information for the people who are looking for it. I really love to camp and travel.

Hey guys, really enjoyed watching all the videos. Thank you for the inspiration. Would you mind advising the insect repellent you use during camping? Thanks and all the best.

Hi Dan. We have quite a few items to keep the insects away. – Mosquito repellant lantern – Insect repellant for clothes/hats – Insect protective clothing

Hi Joe and Kait! What was that pop up shower that joe used in your recent video?

Hi Zak – which video are you referring to? All of the showers we’ve shown in videos are things the manufacturers have built for their campers. I don’t believe any of them are sold separately.

Hello Joe and Kait, I am wondering if some type of security system (cellular?) can be installed in an RV. The system would send an alert to me if there were a break-in. Also, ideally I would like to add cameras that could be used to monitor the RV remotely. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I’m just starting my search for an RV for myself and 3 dogs.

Thanks, Bruce

Hey Bruce – I’ve not seen a system specially for RVs but I’m sure something is out there. The only special consideration will be power…if you’re not hooked up at a campground you’ll need a good battery set up so that it’s always running (or at least when you’re away).

Joe and Kait, Love the videos. Regular viewers and making a list of items to consider when we start. We are recently retired and looking at a class B camper van. Leaning towards Travoto. 2 questions – from your https://weretherussos.com/rv-camping-accessories/ page – 1 – Can you make a list of items just for a camper van? 2- Do you have a van you prefer (or brand) and why? Much thanks from Myrtle Beach SC!

Most, if not all, of the accessories we listed in the general and motorhome specific categories are for campervans as well. I don’t think you’d want the Camco Leveler in the van, but it would be useful if you wanted to know how off level you are when you park.

With regards to the van(s) we prefer and why, that’s a much longer discussion. We do offer one-on-one consulting to help you figure out what’s best for you, but there is a fee for that. If you’re interested, email me at Joe[at]weretherussos[dot]com

Enjoy the YouTube channel

Thank you Roger!

Hi Joe and Kait!

What was the name portable dehumidifier you mentioned in your latest video?

Oh and we’re Berkey fans too but because of space constrains we’ve switched to the acuva UV purifier with a pre-filter. Worth a look for you in your space!

Hi Chris, we have this dehumidifier in the camper. Thank you for sharing your water purifier setup.

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25 Beginner Supplies and Accessories for Travel Trailer Camping

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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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12+ Travel Trailer Camping Essential Items: Your Ultimate Checklist

Want to know all the travel trailer camping essential items? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know in this checklist!

Travel Trailer Camping Essential Items

The allure of open roads and lush landscapes has encouraged many to embrace travel trailer camping.

It is the modern adventurer’s ticket to living life on their terms, as they explore the richness of nature’s offerings.

Yet, preparation is key, and every seasoned camper knows that the secret to a successful trip lies in the right equipment.

Before embarking on a travel trailer camping journey, ensuring you’re well-equipped is paramount.

This involves packing essential items that will ensure your comfort and safety.

Here’s a rundown of the vital things you should never leave behind:

1. Camping Gear

Before getting into the details of your travel trailer , remember that camping still requires basic gear.

Always pack:

A good-quality flashlight and headlamp, with extra batteries.

A multi-tool for minor repairs or emergencies.

A portable grill for cooking outdoors.

Outdoor furniture, like foldable chairs and a table.

2. Kitchen Essentials

When it comes to the kitchen, the trick is in being selective, packing items that are multi-functional and space-saving:

A set of pots and pans that nest within each other.

Portable and foldable utensils.

A collapsible colander and bowls.

Compact appliances like a mini coffee maker.

3. Bedroom Necessities

Your bedroom in the travel trailer should be a haven of rest after a long day of exploring:

Comfortable bedding – remember, nights can get cold in the wilderness.

Extra blankets for warmth.

An inflatable pillow for space-saving comfort.

4. Bathroom Supplies

Maintaining hygiene is crucial while camping:

A stock of toilet paper specifically designed for RV toilets.

Biodegradable soap and shampoo.

Compact, quick-dry towels.

Additional Considerations For Travel Trailer Camping

Beyond the basics, here are a few more things to consider when preparing to camp in a travel trailer.

These are more so that you’re prepared for things like inclement weather, emergencies, and anything else that could maybe go wrong.

5. Emergency Preparedness

Safety should always be your primary concern.

Pack a first aid kit equipped with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.

A fire extinguisher is also essential in the event of an unexpected fire outbreak.

6. Tools and Maintenance

Include a toolkit for any sudden repairs or maintenance needs.

This could contain a screwdriver set, pliers, hammer, wrench, duct tape, and extra fuses.

Additionally, carry a tire repair kit, an essential item often overlooked.

7. Entertainment

Even though the great outdoors will be your playground, it’s not a bad idea to carry along some entertainment options for quiet evenings or rainy days .

Think board games, a deck of cards, books, or a portable DVD player and your favorite movies.

8. Navigation and Communication

In this digital age, relying on paper maps may seem outdated.

However, in some remote areas, you may lose signal, making traditional navigation tools useful.

Furthermore, always ensure your mobile phone is charged, and if possible, carry a portable charger or power bank.

Additional Items for Enhanced Camping Experience

While the aforementioned items are deemed essential for any travel trailer camping trip, there are a few additional items that, while not entirely necessary, can significantly enhance your camping experience.

9. Outdoor Recreation Gear

Depending on the location and duration of your camping trip, you might want to consider bringing some outdoor recreation gear:

If you’re camping near a body of water, consider packing fishing equipment or an inflatable kayak.

For camping trips in the forest or mountain regions, hiking gear could be beneficial.

A set of binoculars for bird watching or stargazing.

Bicycles for exploring the surroundings.

10. Power Solutions

While most travel trailers come equipped with their own power sources, having backup options can prove invaluable, especially during extended camping trips:

Portable generator: This can provide power for your trailer and recharge your devices if you camp in a location without electricity.

Solar panels : An eco-friendly solution to keep your batteries charged.

11. Water and Waste Management

Managing your water supply and waste is a crucial part of travel trailer camping:

Extra water containers: For remote locations without a reliable water source.

Portable waste tanks: To manage your wastewater disposal.

12. Comfort Add-ons

There are a few extra things that can make your travel trailer feel even more like home:

Outdoor rug: Placed outside your trailer, this can help keep dirt out.

Awning lights: To create a cozy atmosphere outside your trailer at night.

Travel trailer skirting: For cold-weather camping, a skirt around your trailer can help insulate and reduce wind drafts.

What Is Travel Trailer Camping?

Travel Trailer Camping is a type of outdoor adventure where enthusiasts use a towable trailer equipped with a bed, kitchen, and often a bathroom.

These trailers serve as a portable home, offering comfort and convenience to campers.

They enable the luxury of modern amenities, while still immersing the camper in the wilderness, combining the best of both worlds.

Conclusion: Travel Trailer Camping Essential Items

Travel trailer camping is a rewarding way to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.

With the right preparation and packing, it can also offer the comfort and convenience of home.

The list of essentials provided in this article aims to equip you for your journey, ensuring that every trip you embark on will be safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

Although it might seem like a lot, once you have everything sorted out and packed, you’ll find that all the effort pays off immensely.

The satisfaction of being self-sufficient and equipped for all eventualities is second to none.

Always remember that each camping trip is a learning experience.

Plan ahead with the proper budget that meets your travel needs.

You’ll quickly discover which items are most important for your unique camping style and needs.

As they say, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

So get packing, start your engine, and take that first step towards your next exciting travel trailer camping adventure.

Consider these top camping spots in Northern California for your next travel trailer camping trip.

The post 12+ Travel Trailer Camping Essential Items: Your Ultimate Checklist appeared first on Discovering Hidden Gems .

22 Must-Have RV Gear, Supplies & Accessories Beginners Actually Need

Just bought a new RV? You may assume that you rolled off the lot with everything you need. However, you still need to purchase some must-have RV gear for a safer and easier first camping trip.

RV stores and dealers are chock full of RV accessories and supplies – but what is the essential RV gear that beginners actually need? String lights and RV gadgets are fun, but these are the items new RVers will need to make sure their rig functions properly.

Longtime RVers compiled this list of must-have RV gear, explanations of why these are essential RV supplies, and some RV tips for beginners. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing!

Note: This blog post includes Amazon affiliate links. All prices are current as of May 2022.

RV Supplies For Electric Hook Ups

Progressive industries smart surge protector (ssp).

Cost: $124 | buy

Those electric posts at campsites can be unreliable. It just takes one surge to wreck the entire electrical system in your RV. Portable RV surge protectors with a built-in surge indicator will note the condition of the surge protector. A sleek, compact, portable design makes this unit easy to use, and it’s engineered for weather resistance to stand up to the elements.

RV Extension Cords

Cost: $17-245 depending on length | buy

You pull into a campground after a long drive only to find out the power is too far away for your power cable to reach. These extensions can be hard to find in remote areas. It’s always good to have an extra cord on hand just for these situations.

RV Supplies For Water Hook Ups

90 degree garden hose gooseneck elbow.

Cost: $20 | buy

Relieve the strain of your hose hanging off the spigot in the campground or in your water compartment. This 90-degree hose elbow will keep your hose in top condition and has an easy shut-off valve.

Brass Water Pressure Regulator with Gauge

Cost: $18 | buy

A water pressure regulator protects your RV plumbing and hoses from damage caused by high-pressure city water. This one features an easy-to-read gauge, so you know if your water pressure is getting too high. Green on the meter indicates the regulated pressure is between 40 and 50 psi.

Travel Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

Cost: $362 | buy

Stay hydrated in your RV travelers without the wasteful and bulky plastic bottles.

Berkey systems are equipped with Black Berkey Purification Elements to purify water, not just filter it, by removing more than 99.99% of viruses and greater than 99.99% of pathogenic bacteria. The portable Travel Berkey Purification System effortlessly purifies water for about 1-3 people per day.

Camco TastePure RV Water Filter

Water quality will differ greatly everywhere you travel. These filters can be attached to any standard water hose to provide healthier and cleaner drinking water. This RV accessory is great for RVs, boats, campers, pets, and much more. It removes particles greater than 20 microns.

RV Accessories For the Dump Station

Camco sidewinder rv sewer hose support.

Cost: $37 | buy

This sewer hose support keeps everything flowing smoothly to the dump station. Sturdy and lightweight, the plastic support system has strong interlocked hinges and deep cradles to hold the sewer hose in place. The accordion design easily stretches around obstacles to stay where you put it.

Rhinoflex RV Bayonet Elbow Fitting with 4-in-1 Adapter

Cost: $15 | buy

The attached swivel bayonet fitting makes the elbow compatible with any lug fitting. The 360 degree swivel makes it easy to connect to your RV sewer hose. The adapter’s built-in gasket provides an odor tight for four sizes of dump station inlets: 4-inch NPT, 3.5-inch NPT, 3-inch NPT, and 3-inch slip fitting.

Valeterra Twist-On Waste Valves

Cost: $21 | buy

Prevent unwanted spillage with this added valve to gate your RV sewer pipe. The tight bayonet attaches to your existing RV fittings to ensure a leak-proof flow. Open the gate once your hoses are connected, saving you from messy surprises.

RV Gear For Safety

300 piece first-aid kit.

Always be prepared! This easy-to-carry, organized first-aid kit is easy to tuck into any car or RV to have at the ready for scrapes, bruises, and emergencies.

First Alert Standard Fire Extinguisher

Cost: $22 | buy

RVs pose more fire hazards than stationary homes, so keep your camping crew safe. This multipurpose fire extinguisher fights wood, paper, trash, gasoline, oil, and electrical-equipment fires. First Alert’s Rechargeable Fire Extinguisher can be recharged by a certified professional after use, allowing for reuse.

RV Gear For Driving

Garmin rv 785 advanced gps navigator for rvs with built-in dash cam.

Cost: $550 | buy

Regular GPS navigators can get big rigs in sticky situations. Custom routing takes into account the size and weight of your RV and then finds the best route for your vehicle. This RV gadget provides road warnings to keep you aware of steep grades, sharp curves, weight limits, and more.

Furrion Vision 7 Inch Wireless RV Backup System

Cost: $651 | buy

Anything that makes backing into campsites easier is a winner in our book. We love this piece of RV gear for its easy & quick installation. Most RVs are already prepped for the Vision S sharkfin camera system, eliminating extensive drilling requirements. This RV gadget includes a waterproof camera with night vision. The wide viewing angle offers a 120° viewpoint.

Tekton Digital Tire Gauge

Cost: $13 | buy

You should check your tire pressure before every driving day to prevent dangerous tire blowouts.

With a lighted nozzle and display screen, this gauge provides ultimate visibility in low light or at night. The digital display instantly shows the exact reading, eliminating the guesswork of analog gauges. The nozzle seals to valve stem for quick and accurate measurement.

Basic RV Gear For The Campsite

Carmtek camper leveler kit.

Cost: $90 | buy

Not every campsite will be level for the comfort and functionality of your RV. Skip the hassle of setting up your camper with travel trailer leveling blocks or planks under your tires. Level your RV, camper, or trailer in 5 minutes or less with the best RV leveling system on the market!

RV Leveling Blocks with Built-In Ramps

Cost: $50 | buy

These RV leveling pads handle the heaviest of travel trailers, campers, and motorhomes. A thick molded high-density plastic block design allows water and dirt through the leveling block. Built-in ramps keep the leveling block in place while driving up on it and won’t ‘kick’ it out.

Tongue Jack Cover

Cost: $9 | buy

Keep your trailer tongue jack accessible and well-maintained by using a jack cover. With an adjustable both-side pulling drawstring that holds the cover securely and tightly in place, this cover will ensure no hazards penetrate or damage your electric tongue jack.

Outdoor Mat

Cost: $120 | buy

Living life outside is a whole lot easier when the kids aren’t playing in the dirt! Get an easy-to-clean, weather-resistant outdoor mat. The reversible design and corner stakes to extend your living space outside without the mess.

Aluminum 12.5-foot Telescoping Ladder

Cost: $145 | buy

Between sweeping off leaves and routine maintenance, you might be on your RV’s roof more often than you think. Getting up there doesn’t have to be a chore with a telescoping ladder like this one. With one button to extend or retract, it’s easy to pick the height you need for any given job. Aluminum is lightweight, durable, and strong, holding up to 330 lbs. 

RV Must-Haves For Exploring

America the beautiful passes.

Cost: Free-$80 | buy

This gift keeps on giving, all year long! If you’re taking an RV trip, you’re likely to stop at one of our country’s beautiful National Parks. The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. One pass covers everyone in your vehicle.

Rootless Living Subscription

Cost: Starts at $10/year | buy

Rootless Living Magazine is the perfect place to find inspiration and RV tips for beginners. You can learn from real full-time RVers about how to explore, work, and live on the road. Both digital and print subscriptions are available.

Must-Have RV Gear For Beginners, Full-Timers, Weekenders & More

There are many more fancy RV gadgets and RV accessories out there. This lineup should be all the RV gear you need for a smooth RV trip, whether you’re traveling to a local campground or embarking on a cross-country adventure.

This list is compiled from the Rootless Living RV Gear Guides. Subscribe for more gear guides like this, along with stories, destinations, and inspiration from RVers, nomads, and travelers.

Subscribe to Rootless Living Magazine

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• 🏕️ 34 RV Must-Have Accessories

35 RV Must-Have Accessories

(Camp Addict does NOT accept payment from any company to review or endorse their products.)

By Kelly Beasley

Yay, I just Bought A Camper! What RV Must Haves Do I Need?

Most people that buy a new rig face the question: "What RV must haves should I get?"

Your new-to-you RV (new OR used) will not come with all of the supplies for RVs needed for it to function correctly at your campsite. It doesn't seem fair, does it?

Well, suck it up, buttercup! You have to accept that buying your recreational vehicle was just the FIRST thing you need to get to operate your new rig.

Now you need a camper must-have list so you can get everything functioning.

The following gear list is separated into RV MUST HAVES, as well as a 'you will thank us' camper supplies section.

View List On Amazon

You can view all of our recommended items directly on Amazon by visiting the Camp Addict Amazon Storefront . You will find all the items we list below, as well as additional items that we recommend you consider taking on the road with you.

No matter  what type of RV  you have, there are certain RV gadgets that you MUST have for any rig to function correctly and safely when in an RV park.

(Some of these camping and RV supplies can be used whether you are a  boondocker  or love a good campground.)

More than just the best RV accessories, this list of items contains the basic camper accessories that every rig should have onboard for their camping trip.

Without further adieu, here are your RV must haves.

RV Must Haves

As mentioned above, there are certain RV supplies and accessories that pretty much any recreational vehicle owner needs. This first section is this list of camper must-have items that we've compiled. Below this first section are things for a camper that we feel you should consider buying. Top RV accessories, if you will.

Surge Protector/EMS

This RV must have is the #1 thing you should NOT skip out on, nor should you skimp and go 'cheap.' 

Buying an EMS or a  surge protector for RV  use will save you the time, hassle, and cost of having an electricity 'event' in a campground. (They are more common than you think.)

An event (power surge, brownout, or improperly wired pedestal) could damage every electronic device in your electrical system.

To say that this would be costly would be an understatement. It could even total your RV. TRUST US. Get your RV protected. It's one of the biggest must haves for RV camping.

BE AWARE: An EMS provides greater protection for your electrical system than a surge protector.

To simplify which of these must-have RV gadgets you should get,  read our page on surge/EMS devices .

Water Pressure Regulator

All it takes is ONE TIME for the park's water pressure to be so great it bursts one of your lines.

Not using one of these must-have camper items risks flooding your RV. Water is an RV's biggest enemy.

You can get cheaper versions, but they don't regulate the pressure. They just reduce it, and often, too much or too little.

This water pressure regulator lets you 'dial in' the pressure coming into your rig.

RV Water Filter Store Custom Built RV Hose

To fill your freshwater holding tank or to be connected to city water while at a campground, you need a dedicated drinking water hose.

These RV things are available in a few different lengths. Sometimes the spigot is a good way away, so you must be prepared with a long hose. 25 feet should usually suffice.

It might be a good idea to have two lengths of 25-foot hose just in case.

RV Water Filter

As you travel around in your RV, you will use water from various sources.

Some water you get is fine. Some you wouldn't let your dog drink.

Using a trusted RV water filter will keep particles and sediment out of your camper pump and out of your body. This RV accessory can help keep you healthy. RV Water Filter Store has been serving RV'ers for over 30 years.

Shore Power Cord (50amp or 30amp)

Some RVs do not come with an  RV electrical cord .

If yours doesn't, you need an RV power cord to plug in at your campsite.

Don't be fooled that you can use a regular house extension cord, or you will likely have a fire on your hands in no time, as well as not enough amps going through the line to use everything you should be able to at once.

(Check which amperage rating you need before purchasing.)

You can  read our RV power cord page  to learn more about this important RV accessory.

Unless you have a  composting toilet , you need an RV sewer hose . It tops the must haves for a camper list. How else do you think all the stuff going down your toilet will get into the sewer?

This is the least fun part of your RV trip, but it's a necessary evil.

If you have arthritis or have mobility problems, a  Lippert Waste Master  sewer hose will work better for you than this hose. Whatever you get, this is a must-have RV accessory.

Learn more on our RV sewer hose page.

Toilet Paper

Do we need to explain this one? Unless you are always using the campground bathroom, you need this must have for RV camping.

BEWARE- You MUST use TP either made for RVs or TP that is septic-safe. ( Or do this and never have a clog! )

You can find septic-safe TP in the local grocery store or RV supply.

Know that some brands of TP are better than others. Be aware. ( Can you use regular toilet paper in an RV? )

Not all camping spots are level. You MUST make your RV level if you have an absorption fridge, which most campers do. ( Leveling a camper )

Otherwise, after time, it will damage your fridge. Besides, who wants to sleep on a slope?

The levelers to the left are effortless RV equipment and are one of our favorite products.

You can  read our RV leveling blocks page  to learn more about what's available.

This is one of the more unique must-have RV accessories out there.

Wheel chocks for RV use are must-have RV items that keep your rig from rolling away when parked. They are vital for any travel trailer/fifth wheel which doesn't have any kind of automatic brake.

This is not an RV gadget; it's what every RVer needs.

Don't waste your money on the small plastic yellow ones.  Read our RV wheel chocks page  to see what types are available.

Holding Tank Treatment

Keep from smelling up your RV. This stuff helps break down holding tank matter so it won't clog.

Also, it deodorizes. Some RVs can smell, and others never do. This one really COULD be in the 'optional RV camping gear' category, but you never know until you try. Some people never use it and do just fine.

No one wants to deal with a clog, so using the  best RV black tank treatment  is one of the best camper products to avoid a catastrophe.

Not Available In California

• Unfortunately, Happy Campers doesn't ship to the state of California. Curious why? See the Happy Campers review .

Disposable Gloves

Use this RV gear when dumping your holding tanks. It's a necessary RV accessory. Enough said.

You can view all of our recommended items directly on Amazon by visiting the Camp Addict Amazon Storefront . You will find all the items we list on this page, as well as additional items that we recommend you consider taking on the road with you.

You'll Thank Us For Suggesting These RV Accessories

These RV camping accessories make your RV experience much more comfortable.

Many people consider these to be must-have camper accessories, but we will leave it up to you to decide.

Everyone's situation is unique, so you decide which of these RV camping supplies are RV must haves for you. We use many of the products below and consider them camper equipment necessities.

You need plenty of tools when you go camping in an RV. One of the most crucial RV must-have gadgets is your tools. 

You're likely to figure out what you need as you go, but here are the most essential motorhome accessories and RV camper accessories when it comes to tools.

Replacement Fuses

Nothing's worse than blowing a fuse and being stranded without these necessary accessories for a camper.

These are essential camper products to have on hand. This assortment of fuses gives you a fighting chance of having the correct amperage rating to replace the one that just blew. These are what every camper needs sooner or later.

This is right up there with the fuses as far as being on your list of important RV things to buy.

A good tool set is essential if you drive to places that aren't very populated. Either way, a good set of tools needs to be on your RV necessities list.

This is one RV camping gadget that comes in handy a LOT. You simply need a quality headlamp.

For camping trips, yes, but it can be handy to have in your vehicle or around the house as well. A handy RV accessory indeed.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Your tow vehicle might already have this for itself, but you need it for your travel trailer or fifth wheel if it doesn't have it.

They are also handy for motorhomes and toads. You don't want to lose your investment down the road.

With it, you know ahead of time that you are losing pressure before it becomes an issue.

This is one of the most important supplies for campers that many people ignore and later regret.

Air Compressor

We know this one isn't very sexy in the world of RV and camper accessories. Sorry about that.

Still, when you need an air compressor, you will be thankful you put it on your camper accessories list. Tire health is so important, but it's often neglected.

Having a tire pressure monitoring system and an air compressor handy is key in preventing a blowout.

Check out our 12 volt air compressor page to learn more.

Walkie Talkies

Walkie-talkies are almost essential RV and camper supplies. (Unless you're a solo.) They are a priceless communication tool when hitching up, backing up, and more. Full-time RVers love them for their full-time RV living (they've saved some marriages, lol!).

These are the exact ones we use when caravaning together. It's safer than texting and easier than calling (especially when there is no cell service).

Comes with a charging stand. Also charges with a USB cable. For us, this RV camping equipment is essential when we are on the road.

Battery Jumper

What a fantastic product! This is one of the biggest must haves for RV living and regular daily driving.

No more having a dead battery and needing to wait for someone to jump you. With this, those days are over. Great stuff for campers and everyday drivers.

There are several different battery sizes available. Pick the one that fits the size (displacement) of your engine.

Torque Wrench

Talking about not being sexy, let's discuss torque wrenches. You should check the torque of your RV's tires regularly.

This is easier if you have a trailer as the torque amount isn't as significant as it is with a motorhome. But either way, you should be checking.

You need a torque wrench that is rated for approximately twice the amount of torque you need (you shouldn't be using a torque wrench at close to the lowest torque setting or the highest setting).

Slide Mechanism Lube

If you have a Schwintek slide mechanism , then this is the lubricant that Lippert recommends you use.

Marshall has a Schwintek slide in his travel trailer, and this is the lubricant he uses. It's lasted him forever, into year 7 with the original can.

Lubricate per the manufacturer's directions, where they tell you. You don't have to go crazy with this stuff!

Outdoor RV Essentials

Part of RVing is enjoying the outdoors when you are at your favorite camping location. Here is a short list of must haves for camper living that allow you to enjoy being outside of your rig.

Outdoor Mat

One of the top items needed for RV camping is an outdoor mat. Having one creates an inviting outdoor space at your campsite and helps keep dirt out of your RV.

There are a bunch to choose from-  check out our page on RV patio mats  for the right one for your needs.

The one we've shown here is great for sandy or dirty campgrounds.

Camping Chairs

It's only natural to want to sit outside when camping, and you may as well do it in comfort, but there are many different types of chairs for different needs.

Visit our page on  the best camping chairs  to see which will work best for your needs.

You may want to add a few types of tables to your outdoor setup.

Side tables for your drink, food, and food preparation tables.

Some campgrounds don't have picnic tables, and if you are boondocking, well, even a long log isn't a good substitute.

For other options, check out our camping table reviews .

Tire Covers

Again with the tires. The sun's UV rays are the #1 killer of tires.

Keep them covered so that your tires don't break down before their time.

This is especially important if your RV does more sitting around than it does putting miles under its tires.

Expand your campsite living area with a Clam screened-in area. It comes with panels to create privacy or block the wind.

Great for cold evenings- put your propane fire pit inside and hang out with your family and friends. Easy RV accessory to set up and break down.

Motion Security Lights

These are another RV accessory must-have, especially if you want to boondock. They don't use any RV battery power as they have solar rechargeable batteries. Full-time RVers love these camper things, especially if they are boondockers.

They are great RV must-have items for peace of mind. They are especially great for when you are coming home after dark. Or if you are simply letting the dog out at night. Good RV stuff, for sure.

Creature Comfort RV Accessories

Just because you are camping doesn't mean you have to be roughing it. Here are a few must haves for RV owners that like creature comforts.

Dehumidifier

Don't think you need one? Are you camping in the East? Then think again. This is a NECESSARY camper gadget if you are in humid climates.

When I (Kelly) had my RV in Florida for just a few months, mold started to grow on my cabinets. I didn't have a dehumidifier. My mom has this model, and it is AMAZING how much water it collects.

Handheld Vacuum

One of the best RV gadgets you can have is a handheld vacuum. This Dyson is what I (Kelly) have had. Shark is also good. 

Even my favorite money-saving guru Clark Howard shows the proof that Dyson/Shark has the most satisfied customers in a  study by JD Power .

If you have a larger RV, you probably want one of their space-saving long-handled vacuums.

Folding Step Stool

This is the perfect solution for both issues with space at a premium and high cabinets.

You will be surprised by how often you need it. It doesn't take up much space and helps you get to all your RV camper supplies.

Oxygenics Shower Head

Most RVs come with an extremely pathetic shower head that has very little pressure. This is one of those RV items that's too easy and inexpensive NOT to replace.

The Oxygenics line of shower heads gives much better pressure and saves water, which is good if you like to camp off the grid.

This is the first upgrade MOST RVers do to their rig because it's so easy. For other options,  check out our RV shower head page .

New Mattress

Ask anyone. Almost NOBODY likes the crap mattress that came with their RV, even if it was brand-new.

It's an upgrade you are guaranteed not to regret. Custom RV mattress sizes available.

For additional options, check out our  RV mattress reviews .

Coaxial Cable

Campgrounds don't supply this for you, so if you are keen on watching cable TV, you need a coaxial cable to plug into the park's cable outlet.

25 feet to be sure you can reach most sites. That said, this is one of those accessories for an RV that should pretty soon be a thing of the past!

Portable RV Water Softener

Depending on where you are camping in the United States, you often come across very HARD Water. Boy that can feel like your skin is just screaming every time you try to wash.

These portable RV Water Softeners work just like the whole house water softening systems, however, they are about 1/3rd of the size and easy to install yourself. Bring back great showers with soft water.

Weird RV Accessories and Supplies, But You'll Thank Us!

These items may not be RV must haves, but they may end up on your camper necessities list!

Clear Sewer Connector

Why do you want to see your waste, you might ask? Because it's the best way to know if your tank is empty.

If you run water through (by flushing the toilet for a good 20-30 seconds or using your  RV black tank flush kit  if you are lucky enough to have one), then you can see if it's coming out clear or not.

We will confess, there's also something strangely satisfying about watching it go clear. It's a must-have for RV camping if you ask Kelly.

Let's face it; an RV is a small space. Bathroom door or not, odors carry. Poo-Pourri to the rescue.

Be aware that you must fill your toilet bowl with water for this to work. Not so ideal for dry camping ( dry camping defined ), but a must for when you're hooked up to a water supply. This might become one of your biggest RV camping must haves because it's such a small space!

There you have it. There are many other must have RV accessories you may want to get, but these camper RV supplies will get you started. You can check out our  luxe recommendations if you are the super glampy-luxe type of person.

Now that you know your essential camper items get out there and Camp On, Addicts!

• Like this list? Want more ideas? Here on Camp Addict we have a few more accessories lists that may give you inspiration:
• Camping Trailer Accessories
• Pop Up Trailers Accessories
• Camper Kitchen Supplies
• RV Water Filters

Author: Kelly Beasley

I dedicated myself to living the full-time RV life for over 6.5 years, immersing myself in the unique quirks and joys of the boondocking lifestyle and gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. In December 2020, my business partner and I made the transition to part-time RVing, but in January 2023, we hit the road once again, this time in our trusty vans. My mission is to help others embrace the RVing lifestyle with confidence and excitement, armed with the knowledge and resources needed to make the most of their adventures. I believe that the more you know, the more you can truly appreciate and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road.

Air actavated camper Jack

This is actually a good list, unlike so many that recommend stuff you don’t really need.

Thank you, Ashley!

Excellent list! We have been RV ing for almost 3 years and gradually purchased all of the “must-haves,” except those levelers. We will look into those. We have 4 out of 6 of the “creature comfort’s” accessories. Thanks!!!!

You must be very smart and savvy shoppers! You’ve done your research and have the best accessories out there. Good on ya!

Enjoy your travels… : )

Hi Folks! I’m thinking about running away, and have just started looking into RVs. I feel like you are providing me with some honest-to-God things to consider before hanging my bandana wrapped belongings on the end of a stick, and hitting the road, so to speak! Don’t worry, I’m 67 and there won’t be an Amber Alert! I signed up for your newsletter and that makes me feel like an almost member of a really cool club! Thanks for being! Debra

Thank you for the great kudos! Hopefully, we will continue helping you as you go. We love RVing and love sharing with others how to make it easier and easier to understand all that comes with it.

Just read your RV must have accessories list from the link in the story of Marshall’s unfortunate finger incident, and would like to offer the following thought. Looking past the obvious, (he put his finger/hand at risk, probably unnecessarily), the damage to his finger may have been reduced and extrication of the finger made easier had he been wearing a decent pair of leather work gloves, a good measure of protection against injury.

Another point, it appears that the trailer is a tandem axle. Was any consideration given at the time to simply letting the air out of the offending tire to reduce the force on his finger? That may have allowed him to self-extricate or at least reduced the pressure on his finger.

Really enjoy the site and the blogs, keep up the good work!

Yeah, wasn’t that a SCARY AS HE** moment for us! Whew! Glad his finger survived.

Gloves- sounds like a good idea, and might have helped a bit. However, I don’t see either of us putting on big work gloves to remove levelers, as it would be so clumsy. Good suggestion, just don’t think we would be able to do the job very easily with something that thick on. But it’s something to think about.

Deflating- I think it did come across in the heat of the moment when we were all trying to figure out what to do, but then the option to jack it came up and figured it would go faster. That poor finger!! I really thought he would have issues with it. But only has some weird tingling sometimes. Annoying at best.

Thanks for your comment, helpful tips, and kudos! We truly appreciate your taking the time out of your day to tell us!

Perhaps you should add a first-aid kit to your list

Hi Dr. Mike,

Great idea! We will find a good one and add it once we are updating this page.

Great most needed info, for new RV’ER.

Glad you found us! New RVer? EXCITING! I remember those days! Anyway, thank you for taking the time out of your day to drop us this sweet note!

Enjoy your travels!

Great info! Thanks!

You’re most welcome, Russell. Thanks for checking out Camp Addict!

Cathy Young here, I am going for a walk through Wed for a 23 Flying Cloud Airstream. Love your site it has been sooo helpful. we have had a motorhome and 5th wheel in the past, it’s been a few years though and I’m rusty at best.

My question: is it better to go solar or generator? Need to do more investigating, any thoughts are appreciated.

Cathy Young

I’m glad you are finding Camp Addict to be helpful!

Solar or generator… Depends on how you will be camping. If you are going to be boondocking a lot, then the expense of having a solar system installed may be worth it. If you just need occasional power while not hooked up, a generator might be an OK option.

I’d consider investing in some lithium batteries as they might be able to get you through a few days of camping without needing to be plugged in, without needing either solar or a generator. And lithium is a great option if you do go solar or generator as they charge way quicker than traditional lead acid. But lithiums are also expensive.

Everything is a trade-off. You will just have to figure out what your style of camping will be and then figure out what is best for your power requirements.

Best of luck and have fun shopping for a new rig!

Kelly, for those who have the “Camco” Rhino tote tank with just two(2)wheels. A steerable wheel kit for 28 & 36 gallon tanks at Amazon makes it easy to move, Price is $72.

Thanks for the tip! I’m familiar with the kit you mention, and it’s a great option for those that find out that two wheels aren’t cutting it and are wanting some easier way to haul around the Rhino tote tanks. Certain sizes of the Rhino totes can be purchased with the wheel kit already. Not a bad option for the heavier/larger sizes.

I am about to buy my first travel trailer. This is a really cool list of a lot of things that never would have crossed my mind. Thanks for putting it together.

Hi Chris, You are most welcome! And thank you for taking the time to send us your lovely comment! We hope it helps you get your things in order after your purchase. Congratulations!

Hi Kim, Great list most of those items I do have. Happy to know Im on the same page with other happy campers.

Not sure if you’re talking to me or Kim, the last commenter, but glad to hear you are mostly set!

That’s a great list- I’m happy to know I thought of some of them, but I will definitely be shopping more for the rest!

Glad to hear you already knew some of them! Some are obvious, like a sewer hose and water hose. Others, not so much. All fo them will help you have a more comfortable, safe trip!

Thank you for checking out Camp Addict, we greatly appreciate the comment, and happy camping!

Thanks. Great list!

Thank you, Mike! We are glad you found value in it.

Great help for us newbies! They all make sense.

Thank you, Joel! Glad you found this helpful. One missing item that is a MUST is a surge protector/EMS. (Adding it today. Big oops on missing this one)

It is VITAL for protecting your everything in your RV that runs on power when connected to shore power. Read our surge protector reviews to learn more.

Have you done any reviews on weather alert radios? Thank you, Craig

We have not. Between getting severe weather notifications from our smartphones, and spending the vast majority of our time out West where there aren’t that many weather events that make a weather alert radio useful, this category doesn’t cross our minds very often.

Thanks for checking out Camp Addict! Kelly and I greatly appreciate it!

Pardon me if I missed it, but I did not see a Surge Protector listed. That along with the water pressure regulator (listed) I believe should be the first two on the list .

Rick!!!!!! How did we miss this????? You are absolutely correct- we totally dropped the ball there and forgot to include a surge protector.

We know better, we have them if/when we need them, but it’s very VERY rare. Going to add it today! Thank you so much.

Great list of RV accessories. I enjoyed the article. Well written and informative. I really appreciate your article. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you very much! We appreciate your input and hope you found value here.

If I buy a low gem shower head, do we still need the water pressure regulator on the outside of our Rig? (15ft. Travel trailer)

Yes, you still should use a pressure regulator while you are connected to a pressurized water source. It should keep, if you have a loose connection somewhere or a weak area, the water pressure from being so high it causes a leak in your pipes somewhere.

Your low-flow shower head will use less water while giving you decent pressure to rinse with.

We also recommend turning off the water (at the source) while you’re away (And turn off your water pump if you are dry camping). If you aren’t home, you won’t see or hear an active leak. It’s just a good preventative measure and habit to get into.

I love lists… Do you have a checklist that gets you ready to hit the highway? Want to make sure the retired hubby doesn’t miss something!

Not sure if you are inquiring about ‘before you leave the campground and hit the road’ type of checklist, or a ‘get all the things you need to prep an RV for its first trip’ type of checklist.

We don’t have a checklist for packing up from a campground as it is very dependent on the type of RV you have. But you can check out an app like The Ultimate RV Checklist , which is available for both Android and iOS.

This page is a good place to start for the ‘getting an RV ready for its first trip’ style list.

I have a 20 year old 5th wheel. I would like to upgrade the suspension. Any suggestions on products would be greatly appreciated.

I have zero experience upgrading an RV’s suspension, so I’m not really of much use.

Though I have had friends upgrade their trailer’s suspension in the past by upgrading the shackles to something that you can lubricate and with better hardware.

Not sure what kind of modifications/upgrades you want to do. I’d jump on some forums and see if you can find some help there (among the noise that you inevitably find online). If there is an owner’s forum for your particular RV, I’d start there.

Looking for gadget that calls cellphone if a/c or power outage while away from rv leaving pets inside??

This is VITAL to RVing with pets. So glad you asked. We have the MarCELL listed in our must-have accessories for pets.

I have been using a MarCELL for about 2 years now and in the last couple of months, it has saved my pups’ lives. I was staying in Florida to help out my mom, MID-SUMMER.

Left for Lowe’s one day in the morning. Had temporarily turned off my AC a bit earlier and then forgot to turn it back on. Got an alert that it was 90 degrees in my RV. Rushed home. Girls were hot but ok!

Had I NOT received the notification, I can’t even bring myself to imagine the cruel death they may have endured. And couldn’t live with myself.

There are other ways people can check the temps- I used to have an old iPhone looking at my inside temp gauge. However, it doesn’t alert you. You would have to keep actively checking. And we are all human and we forget things. (Especially me)

The MarCELL warns you of high or low temperatures (that you decide on/set) and also of power failure.

It can mean the difference between life and death for your pets. It’s peace of mind for sure!

Read our post about the MarCELL .

I also have GPS trackers on both of my girls. I have the Whistle and the FI. I like the FI a bit better.

All of these things have a monthly cost associated with them, but for me, it’s total peace of mind.

I lost my Trixie in the forest for AN HOUR AND A HALF once. I’m lucky she was found. That’s when I got the trackers for both girls.

Camping is even more fun when you can be sure your fur babies are safe!

When it comes to buying a RV, you have to be aware that the unit purchase is bare bones and requires quite a bit of gear to be practically functional and another bit of gear to address trip interrupting issues. A lot of folks have published very good “must have” lists of 10 to 30 items, including the one above and comments below. We started with those lists and realized there was so much more “must have” gear to be comfortable and prepared. You have to decide what level of comfort, convenience and disruption you can tolerate. For us, we planned to take our two young children on the road for 7 weeks with reservations at national parks that aren’t forgiving. We wanted to maximize the experience and minimize downtime. The list below leaves off some of the items specific to our needs/tastes but I think encompasses items that most people would find extremely useful or necessary. Besides having the expectation of spending at least another $500 on RV add-ons, the other two pieces of advice I’d give you are: 1) if you’re not handy with small DIY projects and repairs, RVs may not be for you. They require all kinds of little handyman type jobs from the moment you get the keys 2) Don’t ever pay MSRP. Unit pricing is almost completely arbitrary and very much depends on the model you’re buying. Unlike passenger vehicles where you can pretty much figure out a truck’s selling price within a few dollars, RV prices vary over $10,000 depending on the dealer. After you find a model you like, contact every dealer within 800 miles to get pricing (plus/minus delivery, hitch, and brake controller as applicable). You’ll get an idea of how low dealers are willing to go for the sale. Obviously, they’ll never sell you a unit where it’s not advantageous to them so don’t worry about it being unfair. They get manufacturer incentives that sweeten the deal for them. Perhaps I’ll try to organize this better, but from outside to inside, here goes: – Second spare tire with spare tire mount (on models with dual axles. A front tire can blow and shred the good one behind it) – Wireless backup cam (can buy inexpensive models on Amazon for $75) – TPMS wireless (inexpensive on amazon) – Replace CH751 locks for all hatches (Use tumbler locks that key can be removed when unlocked. Have them keyed the same. ISS4Locks.com) – Motion sensing tap lights for storage compartments – Camping chairs – Outdoor carpet (synthetic beach mats work great) – Propane grill (we bought campchef setup) with quick connect hose, tongs, brush, lighter – 5 pieces pressure treated 2x8x8 for place under tongue jack (cheaper and more versatile than those buckets) – Hitch lock – Yellow Jack pads (for soft ground and leveling) – Drill with scissor jack bit – Mechanic gloves (saves knuckles and mess when dealing with hitching/unhitching) – Reflective Safety vest – Jack for tire changing (Often your trucks jack will suffice but actually check it) – Tire iron (often the trucks lugs are not the same size as the RV) – Tire covers for all exposed tires (sunlight is brutal on tires) – Socket that fits spare tire nut on spare tire mount (Tire iron doesn’t fit mine!) – Tool bag (extra fuses, vise grips, pliers, needle nose pliers, screwdrivers, duct tape, electrical tape, pocket knife. Harbor Freight is a good place to get this stuff inexpensively) – WD 40, Silicon spray for slideouts if applicable, Silicon with caulk gun, hitch grease – Portable air compressor (capable of inflating to your tire’s PSI), extensions/connections – Fresh water hose, in line water filter, 90 degree elbow, y splitter, pressure regulator, container to store hose – Grey water hose/back tank flush hose (“dirty”) and container to store – Grey water hose waste valve – Sewer hose expandable support – Box of gloves, hand sanitizer – Sewer hose with clear elbow (15ft), Sewer hose extension (10ft) – Standard 20 amp electric cord (at least 25ft) – RV electric cable (usually supplied), with downgrading adapters for 30 & 20 amp connections – Surge protector (I used a cable lock to secure them together) – 50ft coax cable if you want to tie into cable TV connection – Small bubble level – Drive on wedge levelers with chocks – Inside Door mat for every entrance – Electric space heater (if going anyplace that’s cool at night. Saves tons of propane) – Bathroom: Upgraded shower head (better pressure), black tank cleaning pods, quick dissolving/RV TP, TP holder (anchored mine to side of sink with small board on inside), 3m towel hooks, manufacturer approved cleaning solution for shower – Flashlight +/- headlamp (spare batteries, if applicable) – Trashcan, broom, dustpan, handheld vacuum, Swiffer style mop, – Collapsible laundry bag(s), laundry pods, quarters, dryer sheets, backup laundry line – Collapsible sink/dishwashing basin (good for when trying to minimize grey water), drying rack vs drying mat – 5 gallon gas can (either filled or for emergencies where you can’t pull into gas stations) – Small wood handsaw

Thank you for your suggestions. I am new at this. All the help I can get is greatly appreciated.

Your’e most welcome! Best not to overbuy- there are certain things you can get along without. Try camping then figure out if you need x, y, or z. I was given a few things I never needed since I ended up full-time boondocking. For instance, a picnic table cover. Never have one, so never needed it. Didn’t know until I hit the road to know how I would camp. But refrigerator bars? Definitely get refrigerator bars. : )

You may want to check the link for the refrigerator fan – the link didn’t work for me.

Thank you for the heads up! Sorry for the inconvenience.

We tried it and the link is not working for us either. We appreciate the heads up! We will replace it ASAP.

(I am due to do a monthly link check. You just saved me one!). : D

Just recently discovered your site and really liking the content. Looking forward to more.

Thank you, Jim! We love the kudos and appreciate your warning about that broken link!

Hi! I enjoy reading about your adventures & have learned so much about maintaining my RV. As I was reading through your list of “Must have” & “You’ll thank us” lists, I clicked on the link for the TPMS and in the description on Amazon, the company said this – “DO NOT USE ON RUBBER VALVE STEMS OR TOWED VEHICLES OR TRAILERS“. Are their any tires that don’t have rubber valve stems? Isn’t that a direct contradiction to the purpose of the product? Or am I not reading it correctly? TIA!

Hey Kimberly,

Not for use on towed vehicles or trailers? Yeah, that makes total sense! Or not…

Regarding not using a TPMS system with rubber valve stems, I’m completely on board with this. The sensor is a weight on the end of the valve stem. Rubber valve stems can flex. Some easier than others, but they all can flex. A spinning weight on the end of a flexible object can introduce fatigue in said object. That’s why they say don’t do it. I agree.

My current tow vehicle has metal valve stems. Not sure if it came from the factory this way as I’m the second owner, but I suspect it did.

My trailer came with rubber valve stems. I put a TPMS system on it when I first got it 6 years ago. But before I did, I took it down to Discount Tire and had them install metal valve stems. Process was very quick and VERY affordable. Under $30 for four tires. Actually I think it was closer to $20, but I believe they charged me less than they quoted me over the phone.

Either way, it’s simple to get rubber valve stems swapped out for metal. Do it! Before you install a TPMS.

Thanks for the question, and Camp On!

Our first camping/RV adventure begins (we’ve been live-aboard boat cruisers) and need resources to find campsites and parks in southeast USA. I’m sure you have ideas.

Campendium.com is pretty much all you need if you ask us.

Have fun in your new adventures!

We have a 32 ft class c. We want to do all we can to extend the life of our tires, so we have tire covers.

The Anderson system looks like a very useful tool for leveling. Does it serve the dual purpose of keeping the tires off the ground? Is there any problem using the system when we are already fairly level, or for extended periods?

Also, is there any problem if we only support the the front and rear outer tires and leave the two rear inner tires hanging for a long time?

Or, would we better off using the plastic square pads?

We will have auto leveling jacks engaged at all times.

This is a very useful website…thank you!

Because you have the self-leveling system, the Andersens might be pretty unnecessary. We think the Lynx Levelers would be of more use for you. You could also use Snap Pads under your levelers if preferred.

Using the lynx levelers would keep your tires off the ground perfectly, and you can use them in various other ways as well for your setup.

Is there a reference that spells out where (road) you should NOT attempt to drive an RV on? Planning a cross country trip and don’t want to end up picking a bad route.

You could try using an RV specific GPS systems that are supposed to be able to route you around bridges and such that aren’t RV suitable. But low bridges should be the only issue you would have if you stick to primary and secondary roads. And this is really only an issue when you are in a part of the country with older roads that were built before higher vehicles AND you have a tall RV.

Out west, where Kelly and I travel exclusively, we don’t have bridge height issues. We do have issues of non-paved roads that you wouldn’t want to take an RV down, but this is just a matter of being smart and not driving someplace you don’t have knowledge about.

But we have smaller RVs. If you have a 40+ foot motorhome, you are going to have issues even in ‘OK’ areas. Especially navigating tighter gas stations and places not made for monster RVs. Again, you just have to be be smart and get some experience knowing where you can take your rig and where you steer clear of.

i have a question we just bought our first RV. I’m a stickler for doing things right the first time. Can you plug a 30 amp male to 30 amp female surge protector into a 50 amp electrical box at the campsite? Isn’t the prongs angled different on the box as to the prongs on the surge protector?

Yes, you can do that! All you need is a 50 amp to 30 amp ‘dogbone’ adapter. You can find out more about those by reading this .

Have fun camping in your first RV!

Camping and RVing. The avocation that costs a fortune so we can live like homeless people. 🙂

Yeah, it’s kind of funny when you think of it that way! I LOVE being houseless… but I definitely have a home! ????

Looking for a (venal) weatherproof cover for the Motorized RV Hitch on a Husky 4500. So far what i located are too small. Would need to be 17″ tall with a draw string closure at least at the bottom x 6 1/2″ wide at least x 10 1/2″ front to back.

Amazon offers a wide variety of electric tongue jack covers. You’ll just have to find one that fits the Husky 4500 tongue jack.

Looks like there are some possible candidates just glancing at the dimensions given.

Has anyone ever heard of if I have an RV trailer at a campground that I must have a truck parked next to it that can tow it in case of an emergency

We have not but we never stay in campgrounds (For many reasons, but this one would be one more reason to add to the pile.)

I think I understand the need to have transport though. I’m guessing because of lawyers and such, they require it so they won’t be liable for you losing your stuff if a fire or the like happens.

Just another joy of camping in campgrounds!

We have a new 22 ft travel trailer, and planning a long trip. Do you have recommendations for WiFi coverage? We have unlimited Verizon but find that most campgrounds have poor coverage/too many users. Any suggestions? Thank you, Linda

Thank you for the question- however, we don’t touch on internet technology as it changes so much/so fast and there is already a great resource for all things mobile technology.

For the best/latest info, go to “RV Mobile Internet”. https://www.rvmobileinternet.com . They will have all the answers you need! Have fun on your trip and Camp On!

We Just bought our first traveling trailer. 2019 Palomino Real Lite 181. First time RV buyer we have no clue what we are getting ourselves into but are so excited to our new adventures. I am trying not to over do it buying essential items for our rig, but I really need to know what would be the correct bare minimum to get us started.

Never driven my truck with a camper, kinda scared.

Your thoughts

Many Thanks Michael and Rita

Hi Michael and Rita-

Congratulations on your new purchase! It’s a little hard to say exactly what you will need without knowing all the details, but we will try.

Definitely get a sewer hose. And a fresh water fill hose along with a non-potable water ‘regular’ hose.

If you are in campgrounds all the time, no generator needed. If your trailer weighs at least half of your trucks weight, you will need a weight distribution hitch. We highly recommend the Andersen.

Get fridge bars. You can thank us later. ????

We highly recommend preventative maintenance as in get a tire pressure monitoring system. I use the EEZ system like this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009BF9S4E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=campaddictbutton-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B009BF9S4E&linkId=8f52f41b04661c01f94267dcfe8a5fa6

Towing mirrors if your truck doesn’t already have them.

If you’re staying in campgrounds all the time with full hook-ups, no need for a generator or solar . Otherwise, you’re gonna need to do one or both.

Going to need levelers. Recommend the Andersens.

Shore power cord if there is not one already connected to your RV.

I hope I covered most of the things, but you will figure out what else you need as you go!

Thank you for trusting Camp Addict!

Go to the forum for your RV. You will learn tons and you can ask questions. Excellent resource!

Finding this site to be SO helpful. My husband, fur babies, and I are currently researching and planning to become full time RVERS!!! Will hopefully be debt free with a little money in the bank when we leave. We are realizing now how much we have to plan ahead for. Thank you for all of your helpful information!!!

That’s so exciting Trisha! Being debt free is a huge load off of one’s back, as you know.

Plenty to plan for and many exciting adventures in front of you! Good luck, and we’re glad you found this resource.

Happy planning!

I am beginning my rv summer adventure soon this was very helpful. I found your blog from the best camping discount provider. Look forward to the new experiences.

Ooooh, an RV summer adventure! That sounds wonderful. Thank you, we are very happy you found us. Have a ball this summer and we hope we helped you with the questions you had.

Fantastic for the beginner

Thank you, Tom!

I have a 35 ft Class A motorhome , do you need chocks on both back tires or is on set enough?

I’m of the opinion that two sets of wheel chocks is better than one. Then again, I go a little bit overboard by using two sets of x-style chocks and two sets of normal chocks on my 24 foot travel trailer. This is from the experience of having it move on me when I didn’t want it to (on more than one occasion), so I’m not messing around anymore.

Your Class A has a parking brake (I assume) and maybe even some sort of leveling system. Assuming this to be true, both of these will help keep your rig in one place (assuming you aren’t parked on some crazy uneven surface), so the chocks are just a backup (rather than primary system like they are on my rig). So, depending on the setup you have, one set of chocks might be enough. Really cannot say without knowing exactly what your rig is (or what equipment it has).

Having said that, chocks are cheap. And you should have plenty of storage bay space on a 35 foot Class A. So more chocks the better…

Happy camping and here’s to a rig that stays put when stationary!

I have a Class a 36D and with the parking brake set and all 4 leveling jacks down I’ve never blocked the wheels.

I just found your site. My wife and I have bought our camper, 25ft, RockWood Mini and we hope to start camping soon. The info that I have read from your site is helpful for our first adventure. Hope to see you soon.M&M

Hi Mike and Mona,

Thank you for your sweet words! Congratulations on your camper, we hope it serves you well. We may see you out there, so camp on, summer will be here before you know it!

I have been admonished before and again here about the refrigerator risking damage if not level… Understood. But nobody ever gives any quantitative assessment of just how much or how little the refrigerator can be out of level before it risks being damaged. Can anyone give a rough estimate of the degrees of inclination (or grade ratio) that would begin to be detrimental to a refrigerator?

Yeah, it’s 3 degrees out of level if looking straight on at the fridge. There is a bit more leeway in the other direction, but 3 degrees is a good number to remember.

Hi I’m new to camping/RV life. We are purchasing a 5th wheel this October and I’ve been doing my homework. I do have a question that may be obvious but its not sticking out at me. The Frig……….When you are pulling the RV down the road is it powered? I’m wondering if I can load the frig and freezer up at home rather than packing coolers or shopping when we get to where we are going?

Hello Estelita,

Great question! Your new 5th wheel (congratulations on the upcoming purchase) will have a refrigerator that can run on propane (as well as shore power – 120 volts). That is assuming that you aren’t getting an RV with a residential refrigerator. I’ll assume that you are not.

Because your fridge can run on propane, you most certainly can leave it on all the time, including while traveling down the road. No need to put your food into a cooler or shop only when you arrive (which isn’t practical in a lot of locations, including where Kelly and I camp).

HOWEVER, there is a school of thought that says you shouldn’t have your propane on (at the propane bottles) while in transit. Because of a risk of fire if there is a tire blowout, etc. This is certainly a risk if your propane lines goes near where the tires are and are in the ‘open’ and susceptible to damage in case something goes wrong.

So you have to weigh the pros and cons, and know where the propane lines, etc, are in your rig. I personally keep the propane on and fridge running when traveling. I think Kelly is half-and-half.

Your fridge will keep items cool (it’s a big cooler after all) for several hours (dependent on the outside temperature, of course) so you should be able to get away with only running it when you are stationary. You are going to have to figure this out as you go along. One of the many joys of getting to know a new RV.

Hope that helps and here’s to many great trip in your new rig!

I have to disagree. My belief is the propane should be shut off for travel. Get stuff as cold as you can make it and lock it down, Get a burrito at the next stop, for lunch. Burritos are good for you if they’re not pre-made. Carnitas for everyone!!!

I personally wouldn’t travel with the propane on. Unless you are going from coast to coast, your fridge will keep stuff cold during a trip of, say, less than 8 hours. When you get to your destination for the night, you can turn it on for the night.

We travel with the propane on, but if you don’t want to, you can put bottles of ice in your fridge in various spots to keep things cool while you travel.

Great Info! Several additional “must have” things come to mind: 1) a set of mesh sink screen strainers. We have these in our kitchen and bathroom sinks and they prevent a lot of gross small food and other particles from washing down into the grey tank 2) yard clogs. Easy slip on/off shoes help keep down the amount of dirt we track into our RV 3)small bins or plastic containers. These really help keep things organized and in place when we travel. I use them in my pantry, bathroom cabinet, drawers, and closet. My hubby uses snap-lock containers in the garage to organize fuzes, loose nuts/bolts, etc.

Hi Diana- Thank you, glad you have found this useful. Yes, the strainers are great help. I use what came with my sink- the typical sink strainer, but I used to have the kind you are talking about. Also, I had one pair of Crocs, but they were a little too small and I couldn’t get them on easiest so I gave them away. Good idea though. Thanks for the extra tips and Camp On!

Wow, many things I never knew! I might get a couple of these things for my regular car and keep planning for my trailer dream!

Yes! Keep the dream alive and just go for it! Thanks for reading and for commenting, Maple. ?

Good suggestions, I am going to get a couple things such the refrigerator bars, refrigerator fan. Thx for preparing a comprehensive list

Awesome, Bob! You’ll love the fridge bars. Man, they have been a lifesaver for me. Or at least for Gizmo. Might have saved a can of coke from literally killing her by now. I have opened the fridge after travel, and things have fallen out- a can of coke COULD kill her. ? Not anymore! Hope we see you down the road again sooner than later!

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RV Parts & Accessories

For many folks, there’s no better way to vacation than with a Recreational Vehicle, or RV, especially if you don’t like keeping to a schedule, making reservations, or getting indigestion. With an RV you come and go as you please, and bring the lodging and restaurant with you. RVers travel stress-free, sleep in comfortable, familiar beds, and eat good food prepared the way they like it. Look over our selection of RV parts & accessories and you’ll see that we’ve got plenty of gear to help you enjoy the RV lifestyle. Whether you’re a newbie just starting out or a veteran of the roadways, we’re sure you’ll find many useful RV accessories, camper parts and supplies at CAMPERiD.

RVs come in two flavors, self-powered motor homes, and travel trailers that you pull with another vehicle, usually a truck or SUV. Regardless of which mode you prefer, once you arrive at your destination you’ll need to get set up, and for that we have a large selection of jacks, from scissors jacks to power tongue jacks; wheel chocks and wheel stops; sturdy leveling blocks, including stackable and interlocking blocks that come with a carrying case; 5th wheel landing gear; and trailer bubble levels and jack pads, as well as generators, power cords and connectors, and plumbing hoses.

An RV is essentially a house on wheels, and your home away from home when you’re traveling, but even though the systems are basically similar to a stationary dwelling, an RV has unique requirements. With our wide range of RV parts and motorhome accessories, we can supply you with the specialized equipment you need to make your RV as comfortable and functional as possible. Here at CAMPER ID we offer RV awnings, windows, skylights, vents, and ceiling fans to help you manage the temperature and natural lighting. Plus, we have exterior and interior doors, steps and ladders, seating, bedding and storage cabinet options so you can be comfortable and get the most use from your available space, as well as the hardware items that any home occasionally needs, but specially designed for an RV.

Efficient management and storage of clean water and waste is crucial on an RV. We have fresh water tanks that won’t affect the water’s taste, filter systems and replacement cartridges to ensure the highest water quality, pumps to provide sufficient pressure, and faucets and shower fixtures to manage the flow. Our sinks and tubs are amply sized for cleaning and bathing, and we have gray water tanks for waste water storage. Black water tanks come in a range of capacities to hold the waste from permanent or portable toilets and we have macerators to grind waste, as well as hoses through which the waste can be pumped for dumping. Our stock of RV supplies includes toilet paper that breaks down quickly and won’t clog, and the proper chemicals to control odors and break down solids.

Whether it’s for lighting, appliances or entertainment, an RV needs electrical power, and depending on the requirements of the component being supplied, this could mean 12 volts DC, or 120 volts AC. Power is supplied by a generator, batteries, or external hookup to grid or “shore” power. On our site you’ll find portable generators and generator accessories, deep cycle batteries, power converters to convert 120V AC to 12V DC, and inverters to convert 12V DC to 120V AC. We offer both electric and propane powered appliances including cooktops, microwaves, grills, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, water heaters, air conditioners, washers and dryers.

Many facets of maintenance on recreational vehicles are unique to these mediums, but other tasks will be familiar to anyone who has maintained a motor vehicle. The roof on an RV can be damaged by heat from the sun, the elements, and abrasion from low hanging tree limbs, which can lead to leaks. We have the repair materials for every type of roof including aluminum, fiberglass and rubber. We also have a great selection of caulk, tape, sealant, and weatherstripping to keep doors, windows and vents sealed. Cleaning the exterior of an RV is a big job, so you’ll want to use products that are effective. We have cleaners that can remove tough stains and black streaks without harming or fading decals. And once you have your RV clean, it will stay that way if you install one of our weather resistant RV covers.

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I’m a Lifelong Camper, and I Found 15 Must-haves in Amazon’s Secret Camping Store

Score hammocks, chairs, tents, and more starting at $9.

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As a lifelong camper, I’ve become a walking encyclopedia of the latest and greatest gear to pack for outdoor adventures. Even when I was in the third grade, I can remember being inspired by the wilderness survival novel Hatchet to become independent and resourceful out in the woods. Now, 25 years (and countless trips) later when I set up my tent, I know I have all the best camping essentials by my side.  

Normally, I get my camping gear from REI . A lifetime membership only costs $30, and you get dividends every year in addition to discounts. But recently, I discovered an unexpected hidden gem in Amazon’s secret camping store , which is basically like Pinterest. It features camping-themed gear guides and shopping lists, all curated by avid campers like me. Whether you’re looking for navigational tools , go-to’s for off-grid camping , or everything you need for a camp kitchen , you’ll find it here. And many of the products are best-sellers with thousands of reviews. Plus, like most things at Amazon, they’re affordable!

Since I have an upcoming camping trip where I’ll be on a Natural Selection cycling safari following Botswana’s elephant highways, I’ve spent hours “window shopping” in Amazon’s hidden camping store. Here are 15 of my favorite finds starting at just $9 that I hope you’ll find helpful on your next camping trip, whether you’re headed to Africa like me or your nearest national park. 

Kelty Wireless Freestanding Tent 

When my dog and I tent camp this summer, we’ll be sleeping in the Kelty Wireless Freestanding Tent . Thanks to the “Kelty Quick Corners” this tent is easy to assemble and takes less than 10 minutes to set up. And because it has two doors, getting in and out is convenient. I also love the two vestibule areas which provide extra storage space for my camping gear I don’t want in the tent but don’t want exposed to the elements. Best of all, the rain fly actually works, which Amazon shoppers can attest to. “It got tested on our second use with a heavy rainstorm,” wrote one shopper who hopes to use this tent for years to come. “We stayed totally dry.” 

To buy: amazon.com , $150 for two-person tent 

Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Daypack

I’m not the kind of camper who can just sit around the campsite all day. I love to hike in between meals, and my go-to bag is the Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Daypack . I’ve used it everywhere from Africa to Argentina, and I’m planning on taking it to the Maldives in a few weeks. It’s water-resistant, has tons of pockets (including mesh water bottle holders on the sides and a separate compartment for wet stuff), and the best part is it packs down into its own front pocket. When folded down, it only takes up about as much space as a T-shirt. It’s the best travel daypack I know of, and I don’t know how I ever lived without it.

To buy: amazon.com , $29 (originally $34)

Coleman Camping Chair with Built-in 4 Can Cooler

My family was once very territorial when it came to camping chairs. We all had our favorites and didn’t like to share. Fortunately, over the years we’ve all gifted each other the Coleman Camping Chair with Built-in 4 Can Cooler . Now we’re on equal ground, enjoying features like a padded head cushion, dual cup holders, a mesh pocket for reading material and snacks, and of course the insulated built-in cooler which can hold up to four cans of soda or beer. With more than 45,300 perfect five-star ratings, it’s the top-seller on Amazon’s list of Best Sellers in Camping Chairs . 

To buy: amazon , $32 (originally $35) 

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

With nearly 90,000 perfect five-star ratings, the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is one of Amazon’s most highly rated products. It’s the $20 tool that could save your life someday , and I’ve used mine everywhere from Montana to Mozambique. Basically, it’s a plastic reusable straw that filters out 99.9 percent of bacteria and parasites. It also filters out dirt, sand, and microplastics. While you can use it to drink directly from a stream, I use it to fill up my favorite Nalgene Monochrome water bottle .

To buy: amazon.com , $18 (originally $20) 

Coleman Air Mattress

For backpacking, I’m a big fan of Nemo’s Self-inflating Flyer Sleeping Pad . But if I’m car camping and I can bring something bigger, it’s this cushy Coleman Air Mattress which gets me about two feet higher off the ground. It’s so comfy, in fact, that when I have guests stay the night, I often offer them my own bed and sleep on this. Of its nearly 3,800 five-star ratings, one was left by a shopper who slept on theirs every day for more than a year and wrote: “Really cannot tell the difference between this air mattress and a normal bed or expensive mattress when I sleep.” Note: it’s not sold with a pump, so you’ll have to buy one separately. To buy: amazon.com , $79 (originally $88) 

Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock

No offense to the person who invented fire, but sometimes I’m even more impressed by the person who invented hammocks! I don’t think a campsite is a campsite without a hammock, and my personal favorite is the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock . While I like the woven look of traditional hammocks, this one is made of a water-resistant nylon so it’s much lighter and dries a lot faster. It also comes with a carrying sack, and when compressed, is the size of an eggplant. With nearly 40,000 five-star ratings it’s ranked number one on Amazon’s list of Best Sellers in Hammocks .

To buy: amazon.com , from $32 with on-site coupon (originally $40)

Ajmyonsp Marshmallow Roasting Sticks 

As a kid, my parents would have my brothers and me hunt for the perfect marshmallow roasting sticks. While that was fun, as an adult, I prefer to have one already handy. And I love these best-selling Ajmyonsp Marshmallow Roasting Sticks because not only do they have a telescopic handle which makes them easier to store, but they’re also made of a high-quality stainless steel that won’t rust. They have more than 11,000 five-star ratings, and because the tips are blunt instead of sharp, they’re safer to have around kids.

To buy: amazon.com , $10

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel 

On most of my camping trips, I’m hiking to a remote campsite and I need to carry all of my gear on my back. But even when I’m not limited to space and trying to be as lightweight as possible, I like the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel . Because it’s made of an incredibly absorbent microfiber, it dries in half the time a traditional towel does. It’s also less abrasive since the fibers are smaller. This towel, which has nearly 16,000 five-star ratings, comes in 11 colors and sizes XS-XXL. It’s also a great travel towel , so I use it on road trips, too. To buy: amazon.com , from $9 with on-site coupon (originally $15)

Yeti Rambler 10 oz Wine Tumbler

Much like coffee tastes better when you’re camping, I think wine is also more of a treat. Still, I don’t want to pack my delicate wine glasses into the woods. Instead, I bring this hip, and far more practical, Yeti Rambler 10-ounce Wine Tumbler . Like all of Yeti’s best-selling cups, it’s vacuum insulated, so it keeps my white wine cold, and when I use it for hot drinks, it keeps them hot for a lot longer. Thanks to its durable design and “duracoat” coating, it’s practically indestructible, and the Magslider lid helps prevent spills.

To buy: amazon.com , $20 (originally $25)

Core 6-Person Tent 

If your camping plans involve the whole family, or you simply want plenty of space to stretch out, consider this roomy Core Tent , which is big enough for up to 11 people. It’s an Amazon best-seller and has more than 3,800 five-star ratings. Shoppers love the interior organization which includes pockets, hooks for hanging things like lanterns and headlamps, and a mesh “loft” for other gear you don’t want on the ground. Another perk? Despite its size it’s easy to assemble. “My 11-year old facilitated the set-up without looking at the instructions,” wrote one satisfied shopper . 

To buy: amazon.com , $80 for six-person tent (originally $120)  

Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree Down Sleeping Bag

My first sleeping bag was a hand-me-down from my uncle who gave me the sleeping bag he was issued when he was in the military. It was warm but way too heavy and bulky for the kind of camping I do now. If you’re looking for something super lightweight — think 2-3 pounds — that easily fits inside your backpack or can be attached to the outside with a carabiner — it takes up about as much room as a sweatshirt — I recommend my Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree Down Sleeping Bag . This cozy three season (summer, fall, and spring) sleeping bag is filled with a water-resistant down, and it has an interior stash pocket where I keep my phone and headphones. 

To buy: amazon.com , $165

Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 160

I first learned about Jackery’s products when I was researching solar-powered generators for Kampgrounds of America. Campers I interviewed swore by their Jackery’s, and the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 160 is perhaps the most popular. It has an impressive 4.7-star average rating and more than 5,000 five-star reviews at Amazon. About the size of a lunch box, it’s quite compact, and because it can be charged via solar panel (sold separately), car, or wall outlet, it’s very versatile. It can charge up to five devices at a time including those powered by USB. 

To buy : amazon.com , $140 (originally $150)

Igloo BMX 52-Quart Cooler 

Even if you have a 40-foot-long RV, your fridge and freezer probably won’t be big enough to hold all of the food and drinks you need to keep cold. That’s why I recommend investing in a sizable cooler like the Igloo BMX 52-Quart Cooler if you’re driving to your campsite and are staying for more than a night or two. It has more than 6,200 five-star ratings, and shoppers love features like the secure T-grip latch system, the tie-down loops, and the thick, yet lightweight, insulation that keeps ice intact for up to five days!

To buy: amazon.com , $150 (originally $170)

Biolite CampStove 2+

Behind every incredible camp meal, even if it’s just your morning oatmeal, is a quality camp stove. Personally, I have the Biolite CampStove 2+ , which is so efficient I can boil a pot of water in less than five minutes. And unlike other camp stoves, this one doubles as a power bank, so I can also charge my mobile devices with it. It also has an attached light which makes using it in the dark a lot easier. It has more than 1,000 five-star ratings, and one shopper who says this stove “ rocks their world ” wrote: “I love that I can gather a little pile of twigs, pine cones, and sticks and have a smokeless fire that will not only cook my food but allow me to charge my devices after a long day.” 

To buy: amazon.com , $200 

Kitchen Gadgets Set 

When it comes to camping supplies, the less space they take up, the better. That’s why I’m obsessed with this handy, stackable Kitchen Gadgets Set . Despite featuring five tools, including a grater, grinder, pizza cutter, bottle opener, and swivel peeler, it only takes up about as much space as one normal sized tool. And all of the tools are attached to a ring so they won’t get separated. It has an impressive 4.7-star average rating from more than 3,000 ratings, and one shopper who left a five-star rating wrote: “All the tools are easy to use, sharp, and feel very comfortable in my hand.” 

To buy: amazon.com , $13 (originally $24) 

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The 10 Best Camper Trailers of 2023

From solo travelers to couples, families, and groups, here are the most reliable, enjoyable camper trailers for road trips and overland adventures.

Touring the country is a magnificent and popular adventure. Using a camper trailer is an economical way of getting around for long and short journeys. It can be less expensive than hotels, requires less maintenance and upkeep than a motorhome, and the tow vehicle can be used for trail and around-the-city duties.

Well-constructed trailers allow us to venture through and settle in closer to nature, away from everyday distractions. Setups with solar panels, battery power, water tanks, and propane help us go even further off-grid and stay untethered longer.

After testing a wide variety of camper trailers, our team narrowed it down to the top 10 designs that suit a wide variety of trip goals and needs. If you have questions about camper trailers, check out the buyer’s guide and FAQ at the end of this article. Otherwise, hop to a category that interests you or scroll through our picks:

• Best Overall
• Best Runner-Up
• Best Budget
• Best for Off-Road Travel

Best of the Rest

The best camper trailers of 2023, best overall camper trailer: taxa outdoors tigermoth.

Hauling a camper trailer with conventional comforts is a balancing act when the places you adventure to are among the toughest to reach. Fortunately for exploratory travelers , the TigerMoth Overland ($27,900), made by Taxa Outdoors, is cozy, functional, and a haul-anywhere trailer without being high-maintenance, heavy, or difficult to maneuver.

One of our favorite features is that the sleeping area converts into a dining area, workspace, or group hangout. The swing-up side door creates great airflow when you’re sitting at the kitchen table and expands the space while providing protection from the elements. 

We also dig the axleless suspension and 1.5 feet of ground clearance. For families, the ceiling is outfitted for a rooftop tent. Read all the nitty-gritty details in our full review of the Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer .

• Dry weight: 1,458 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 2,400 lbs.
• Exterior length: 12 ft., 9 in.
• Exterior height: 7 ft.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 7 in.
• Price : $27,900
• Convertible, adaptive space
• A fair amount of storage room
• Solid, functional window and bug shades
• The bed padding isn’t plush or innately comfortable
• It lacks an outdoor shower and sink
• The awning isn’t durable

Check Price at Taxa Outdoors

Best Runner-Up: Winnebago Micro Minnie 2306BHS

Winnebago’s Micro Minnie model ($24,977) is a luxurious choice for family or group trips to haul behind an SUV or half-ton truck . The layout includes an easy-to-use Murphy bed with a regular queen-size mattress and windows for cross-ventilation.

Beneath, the pass-through storage has an insulated door, which is clutch with the bed directly above. The dinette has a push-down table that converts into another bed.

The kitchen is complete with a microwave, refrigerator, and three-burner cooktop. The deep barn sink can be capped off with a cutting board that sits flush with the counter. Another flip-up bunk bed creates additional storage for bulky equipment like bikes. And the bathroom features tons of storage space for linens and headroom in the shower.

• Dry weight: 4,500 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 7,000 lbs.
• Exterior length: 25 ft., 5 in.
• Exterior height: 10 ft., 5 in. (with A/C)
• Exterior width: 7 ft.
• Price: $24,977 (well below the MSRP of $40,971)
• 44 cu. ft. of exterior storage
• Power awning with LED lights to easily enjoy outdoor space
• 15-inch lift and off-road tires
• LED exterior lights
• Only 7 feet wide
• Lightweight but still heavier to haul compared to ultralight trailers for smaller groups

Check Price at Travel Camp

Best Budget Camper Trailer: Colorado Teardrops Canyonland

The Colorado Teardrops Canyonland trailer ($26,500) is a popular choice among crossover and SUV drivers. The cabin and galley are built with maple wood, which creates a warm light, and the bottom of the trailer is protected by a steel powder-coated plate. The queen-size bed platform converts into a table and bench, which is a wonderful option for road trips that exceed a week.

The streamlined underfloor storage is a great spot for bedding or other slim items. We tested the Canyonland model with the overhead skylight and loved the nighttime view of the stars. The electric fan and screened windows offered great air circulation when needed.

From an à la carte menu, you can add more features like solar panels and cargo racks for an extra cost. Check out our full review of the Colorado Teardrops Canyonland trailer .

• Dry weight: 1,150 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 2,200 lbs.
• Exterior length: 8.5 ft.
• Exterior height: 3.8 ft.
• Exterior width: 5 ft.
• Price: $26,500
• Welded, aircraft-grade, structural aluminum frames for rigidity and a long lifespan
• Comparatively low price point
• A multitude of options are available, such as a skylight window, battery and solar power panels, roof rack, and more
• Interior cabinetry lacks a way to secure items from moving while in transit
• The kitchen galley door blocks weather from above but not sideways elements like wind
• We wish the trailer included blinds for the side windows and skylight

Check Price at Colorado Teardrops

Best for Off-Road Travel: Vorsheer XOC Extreme Overland Camper

We really appreciate the 1.9-foot ground clearance, off-road tires, articulating hitch, and Timbren axle-free independent suspension of the Vorsheer XOC Extreme Overland Camper ($49,995). Just in case you get stuck, there’s a heavy-duty D-ring to drag the trailer out with a winch.

The frame features additional weld strength, including extra gussets that provide torque resistance for extreme off-road travel. The outside compartment has pass-through storage, a utility box, and a power box that includes two batteries, a power transfer case, and a prewired 140-watt solar panel . There’s also a water heater and outdoor shower.

The cook station features a pantry, drawers, a two-burner stove, a deep sink, and cabinets. There’s also a slideout refrigerator with an optional freezer compartment. A pop-down work table extends from the back of the spare tire, and the bike rack hookup doesn’t interfere with accessing the galley.

Its optional bonus storage holds two extra 5-gallon jerry cans. And the optional rooftop tent (for an additional $3,000) can sleep three kiddos or two adults.

• Dry weight : 2,600 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 3,600 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15 ft.
• Exterior width: 7.4 ft.
• Price: $49,995
• Birchwood cabinetry
• Interior LED lights
• Removable step for entry
• Wind-resistant, 180-degree awning
• Lacks interior daytime lounge space
• Doesn’t have built-in floor space to remove shoes inside
• Expensive construction

Check Price at Vorsheer

Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0

This off-road trailer ($31,500) is comfortable, functional, and durable for boondocking in rugged environments. The high-density, queen-size memory foam mattress is welcomed after a long day outdoors.

The exterior storage bins are powder-coated for durability, and they have lockable compression latches that block dust. The water tank boasts a 31-gallon capacity. It has 23 cubic feet of interior storage and 13 cubic feet of storage in the rear cabinet.

We appreciate the 55L fridge-freezer that pulls out. The dropdown dual-burner stove and deep sink are smart, streamlined designs. The sink has a cover to convert into a prep counter.

It’s also a luxury to have hot water on demand and an outdoor showerhead to rinse off the grime.

Note: You can opt for upgrades that swap out the standard bed for a convertible bed-to-couch or add a rooftop tent .

• Dry weight: 1,700 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 3,500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 13.8 ft.
• Exterior height: 6.6 ft.
• Price: $31,500
• Timbren axleless suspension and all-terrain tires are dependable for off-road travel
• The trailer is built with aluminum and a powder-coated steel frame for durability
• 23 Zero Peregrine 270 Awning provides 270 degrees of outdoor protection
• Rooftop storage bin for firewood or other items
• 1.75 ft. of ground clearance
• The pantry is located on the back, while the kitchen is on the side

Black Series HQ19

The Black Series HQ19 ($59,995) is one of the only full-size tow-behind trailers we’ve tested that truly can handle off-road adventures, plus there’s a bunch of space for gear. We loved the Polyblock hitch, which has 360-degree articulation, and the suspension.

Overall, the build is luxuriously comfortable. It features a queen-size bed and loads of storage for skis, ski boots , bike pumps, packs, camp chairs, a battery generator, and more.

Our cross-country travel was cozy thanks to the oven, washing machine, fridge, freezer, outdoor kitchen, dinette, oversize windows, robust solar system, full-size stall shower, and hot water. Check out our full review of the Black Series HQ19 .

• Dry weight: 6,122 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 10,000 lbs.
• Exterior length: 26 ft.
• Exterior height: 10 ft.
• Exterior width: 7.5 ft.
• Price: $59,995
• Tows smoothly on-highway and off-road with excellent suspension
• Tons of storage space
• Includes a washing machine
• Lacks USB plugs inside
• The fridge is propane or plug-in only versus solar- or battery-powered

Forest River Explore R-Pod RP-193

The R-Pod RP-193 travel trailer ($37,433) is a great match for family trips. The queen-size Murphy bed is easy to convert into a daytime sofa, plus a pair of twin bunk beds. Another sofa provides seating for five.

The indoor kitchen features a large pantry, a two-burner stove, and a deep sink with a cover. There’s an outdoor griddle, too, to help keep odors outside. Altogether, the trailer has a good layout for getting good shuteye, recovering from a day outside, or hunkering down from harsh weather.

• Dry weight: 3,654 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): Unavailable
• Exterior length: 22 ft., 11 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 10 in.
• Exterior width: 8 ft.
• Price: $37,433
• Plenty of space for perishables in the 6 cu. ft. refrigerator
• A 10-foot awning provides nice sun and rain protection
• Storage cubbies in the bathroom are a bit tight

Timberleaf Classic Off-Road Teardrop Trailer

To reach remote trailheads with this Timberleaf Classic Teardrop Trailer ($23,900), we’re drawn to the off-road package with the Timbren Axleless suspension and 4-inch lift for a 1.5-foot clearance. The setup also boasts all-terrain tires, an articulating hitch, and jeep-style fenders with corner steps.

Considering aesthetics, the design is top-notch. It features fine woodworking throughout the exterior kitchen galley and the interior storage cubbies around the queen-size bed. This is a great choice for single travelers or couples.

• Dry weight: 1,500 lbs.
• Exterior length: 14 ft.
• Exterior height: 6 ft.
• Exterior width: 83-85 in.
• Price: $23,900
• Large skylight in cabin
• Well-crafted kitchen cabinets with various storage options
• Seven 12V LED lights total
• Condensation builds inside the trailer overnight (so we keep rags handy)
• No floor indoor space for the dog’s bed
• Not much cargo space for gear

nüCamp RV Tab S Teardrop Camper

This classic teardrop design is suitable for weekend adventures or longer road trips. The nüCamp RV Tab S Teardrop camper ($31,523) features a galley kitchen, wet bath, and dinette that converts into a comfortable sleep space that can be split or full.

From the windows to the appliances and cabinetry, this camper is well-built and super easy to tow behind a medium-size SUV or pickup truck. We also appreciated the off-road tires and easy-to-clean floor.

• Dry weight: 1,946 lbs.
• Max capacity (GVWR): 2,900 lbs.
• Exterior length: 15 ft., 3 in.
• Exterior height: 7 ft., 8 in.
• Exterior width: 6 ft., 8 in.
• Price: $31,523
• Optional hot water system and central A/C
• Two-burner glass-top stove
• Storage doors stay closed while on the go
• The wet bath is a little tight
• Not ideal for taller folks above 5’10”

Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB

After testing the Flying Cloud 23FB on a turkey hunting trip, we found it was a great size for two friends or partners on a road trip. The Flying Cloud ($85,300) features an indoor shower, bathroom, kitchen, and dining table. Every component on this Airstream felt sturdy, from the door latches to the light switches.

The digital thermostat and furnace were super responsive, and the stereo was solid. The build also managed temperature swings, keeping us cool in the day’s heat and warm at night. Read our full review of the Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB .

• Dry weight: 4,806 lbs. (with gas and batteries)
• Max capacity (GVWR): 6,000 lbs.
• Exterior length: 23 ft., 9 in.
• Exterior height: 9 ft., 9 in. (with A/C)
• Price: $85,300
• Queen-size bed with a pillow-top memory foam mattress
• Optional rooftop solar package
• Heavy-duty deadbolt on front door
• Microwave in kitchen
• Windows can be challenging to open
• Space feels a bit tight with three adults

Check Price at Airstream

Why You Can Trust GearJunkie

We get that people want the best value on gear before spending their hard-earned money. Our expert team carefully selects the products we cover and vigorously researches (and tests) our top choices. Bottom line: The GearJunkie staff is dedicated to exhaustive analysis and helping our readers make informed choices. 

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Camper Trailer

The dry weight of the camper trailers listed in our guide ranges from 1,458 to 6,122 pounds. That weight typically excludes water, gas, batteries, or additional accessories like rooftop tents and racks. Pay attention to the dry weight of the camper so you can determine if the build is within the payload of your vehicle.

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum total weight the trailer can safely weigh. The GVWR includes the dry weight, also known as the curb weight, plus the weight of people, accessories, supplies, and all your outdoor gear.

The GVWR of these trailer picks ranges from 2,200 to 10,000 pounds. You’ll need the GVWR so that you can calculate how much equipment you can safely haul in the trailer on the road, as well as how many people can sleep inside.

Clearance & Tires

If you plan on driving through rugged terrain that would require 4WD, you should invest in a trailer with generous ground clearance and off-road tires , and consider an articulating hitch to prevent toppling over on uneven terrain. Sturdier tires can also provide better traction on slick roads with snow or rain.

The ground clearance of the off-road models on our list range from 1.5 to 1.9 feet on the Timberleaf Classic Teardrop Trailer , Vorsheer XOC Extreme Overland Camper , Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0 , and Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Overland .

When we take a close look at tires, the TigerMoth Overland is outfitted with the 225/75R16 ( Cooper Tires Discoverer AT3 LT ), offering a tread guard against rocks and gravel, extreme durability, and solid grip on wet roads or trails.

By comparison, the Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB has Goodyear Endurance ST225/75R15 Tires, which are great for towing stability and a high load capacity but are not ideal for rough terrain.

Sleep Space

At a minimum, our favorite compact travel trailers offer space for two people to sleep. A portion of these designs include cabins with a nonconvertible queen-size bed. Other trailer designs have options for a couch-to-bed conversion, like the TigerMoth Overland or Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0 , or a structure that supports a rooftop tent.

The larger travel trailers on our list feature a range of comfortable overnight options. The designs range from daytime couches and fold-down Murphy beds to bunk beds to dinettes that transform into a bed. If you’re a taller or wider person, pay attention to the specific bed size.

For instance, the Winnebago Micro Minnie 2306BHS has a full queen-size mattress, whereas some trailers will have a narrower queen-size mattress. The Winnebago Micro Minnie 2306BHS also has a bunk bed that can fold up, so more space is available for storage when the bed isn’t needed.

Also, not all mattresses are created equal. The pad in the TigerMoth Overland is firm with no cushion or give. However, the Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0 features a high-density memory foam mattress, and the Airstream Flying Cloud 23FB has a pillow-top memory foam mattress.

A handful of the tidiest travel trailers have indoor space that’s solely dedicated to a queen-size bed and cubbies. Other tight trailers have beds that convert into a daytime couch or even have a table that can be easily installed. We like that even when the couch is pulled down into a bed in the TigerMoth Overland , there’s still a space to pull our shoes on and off.

Many trailers include an awning, which becomes a gem when you consider how much more space everyone will have to lounge out of the sun and rain at camp. Larger travel trailers typically have indoor sofas and dining tables that often convert into a bed.

Pricier, larger travel trailers have indoor kitchens with a range of features. Inside, you’ll often find a microwave, refrigerator, freezer, oven, sink, two- or three-burner stove, cabinets, countertop space, and dining table.

More compact, less expensive travel trailers have outdoor kitchens, and there’s a variety of unique designs. A galley organizes the kitchen area on the back of the rig, like on the Timberleaf Classic Off-Road Teardrop Trailer .

Other designs have pull-out drawers or fold-down units with the pantry, stove, sink, or countertop like the Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0 or the Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer .

The spacious travel trailers on our list have indoor bathrooms with a toilet and standup shower. Tinier travel trailers don’t have an indoor bathroom, but a handful have an outdoor shower head with warm water hookups like the Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0 and Vorsheer XOC Extreme Overland Camper .

If your camper trailer doesn’t have an indoor bathroom and you’re posted up in a remote place, be sure to research that location’s human waste and Leave No Trace requirements — whether that means digging a cathole or using a WAG bag.

Interior Storage

Interior storage space is great for organizing apparel, cosmetics, electronics, and other comforts. Inside, travel trailers often feature storage space like shelves and cubbies, but not all offer a latch system to hold items in place while driving around.

There can also be storage space beneath the mattress. The Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer had an aluminum interior frame, which extended onto the doors, with numerous holes to clip carabiners, hang dish towels, or slide in hangers to dry gear like our dense wetsuits .

Larger travel trailers usually have ample storage space, including cubbies beneath sofas, cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen, and even hanging closets.

Exterior Storage

Outside, tidy travel trailers can also have a toolbox, tongue box, or racks for storing gear and equipment. Large travel trailers also often have storage compartments facing outward, which sometimes include pass-through storage space.

Doors & Windows

We really appreciate it when the doors and windows are built to last in a travel trailer. One of the most unique door configurations is on the Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer . There’s a back door that swings open and a second door that opens upward like the gullwing doors on the DMC DeLorean in “Back to the Future.” Nearly the entire wall serves as a sturdy canopy.

Windows are great for allowing ample light and can help a space feel bigger, but shades are equally important for privacy and to block out the light of the full moon or campground lamp. Slide-down shades can black out the inside of the trailer, and bug screens can enable airflow regardless of bug activity. It’s also nice to have windows that can be locked when they’re cracked.

Electric, Solar, Gas, and Water

You’ll need to closely consider how much energy and resources you’ll need between trips to a gas station, store, or an overnight stay with shore power.

Even if you don’t plan to charge your laptop or watch television — an option in larger travel trailers — it’s nice to have battery power. The battery can run indoor and outdoor LED lights around the kitchen and doors, as well as the roof exhaust fan — and it can charge up phones. Many travel trailers feature a prewired solar inlet to get an energy boost off solar panels, too.

Each trailer will have a specific capacity for gas and water carry. For instance, the Off Grid Trailers Expedition 2.0 water tank boasts a 31-gallon capacity. The Vorsheer XOC Extreme Overland Camper has upgrade options for a 30-gallon water tank and bonus storage that holds two extra 5-gallon jerry cans. The Taxa Outdoors TigerMoth Camper Trailer holds one 5-gallon jerry can.

In contrast, larger travel trailers have a greater water capacity, in great part to manage the bathroom. The Black Series HQ19 comes with a 50-gallon water tank for supply, a 26-gallon gray water tank for collection (for all used water except from the toilet), and a 26-gallon black water tank for all toilet waste.

Often trailers include an indoor smoke detector, fire extinguisher, and carbon monoxide detector.

How much weight can you tow?

Check your vehicle’s door jamb or owner’s manual for the payload, max towing, and tongue weight rating. Be sure not to exceed those caps with what’s hauled in the trailer and in the vehicle.

What camper trailer features allow off-road capability?

If you intend to off-road with your trailer, be sure to pick one with durable, all-terrain tires that can handle paved, gravel, dirt, and rocky surfaces. Look for a steel frame, ample clearance, axleless suspension, burly fenders, and articulating hitch.

How long do camper trailers last?

Most camper trailers will last between 10 and 15 years. However, numerous factors determine the lifespan of a camper trailer, and the most unpredictable is the human element. Outside elements that affect the lifespan of a camper trailer include the original design, build quality, usage, and storage when not traveling.

Assuming it is a quality-built trailer, is stored properly when not in service, and received regular maintenance, it’s normal to see camper trailers in use after 15 years from when it was bought brand new.

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Based among the awe-inspiring peaks of Crested Butte, Colorado, Morgan Tilton is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie honing the SnowSports Buyer’s Guides alongside warmer coverage. More broadly, she’s an adventure journalist specializing in outdoor industry news and adventure travel stories, which she’s produced for more than a decade and more than 80 publications to date. A recipient of 14 North American Travel Journalists Association awards, when she’s not recovering from high alpine or jungle expeditions she’s usually trail running, mountain biking, or splitboarding in Southwest Colorado, where she grew up and lives today. From resort to backcountry and human-powered to motorized travel, she loves sliding across snow.

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Blackstone 17″ Griddle Review

Let’s begin with an overview of the Blackstone 17” Griddle’s specifications: 

• Cooking Space: 267 square inches
• BTU Output: 12,500
• Burners: 1 H-style burner
• Ignition Type: Piezo
• Weight: 34.45 pounds
• Materials: Stainless Steel

See all the features and specs for the Blackstone 17” Griddle

Griddle ‘N Stow

Now let’s take a look at the specs for the Griddle ‘N Stow bumper-mount grill arm: 

• Grill Fit: 17” or 22” griddle
• Bumper Fit: For 4” square bumpers
• Weight: 30 pounds
• Dimensions: 33″ x 12″ x 9″
• Mounting Hardware: 2 U-bolts, lock nuts, and washers

See all the features and specs for the Griddle N Stow

Who Is This For?

The Blackstone 17” Griddle and Griddle N Stow are the perfect additions for any camper who loves the outdoors and enjoys glamping’s comforts. Enjoy perfect pancakes with a side of bacon as you watch the sunrise or cook steak kabobs for dinner while the sun sets – you can do it all on the 267-square-inch cooktop. 

The Griddle ‘N Stow allows you to access your outdoor kitchen essentials, including your mini fridge and outdoor sink, while attached to your 4” bumper. Nothing is worse than running back and forth up your RV steps to grab things while prepping dinner. This grilling combo is the solution to that issue, as you can have all you need to create the perfect outdoor meal all in one space. 

How Much Can You Cook on a 17-inch Blackstone Griddle?

The griddle has the space to cook up to six three-inch pancakes. Don’t forget the Blackstone 4-piece breakfast kit to make eggs, pancakes, bacon, and breakfast sandwiches easier. 

Once you finish the pancakes, you can cook up to nine breakfast sausage patties on one side while browning hash browns on the other. In the evening, try making delicious quesadillas by cooking chicken on one side and peppers and onions on the other. Be sure to soften those peppers to perfection using the basting dome from the Blackstone 3-piece Hamburger Kit .

How To Add an RV Outdoor Kitchen for Under $500

We were thrilled to have an outdoor kitchen when we bought our RV. It had a convenient sink and a mini fridge that was perfect for storing drinks and snacks. At first, we didn’t use it much since we preferred cooking indoors. We eventually removed the outdoor sink and used the space for extra storage. 

As we traveled to more scenic destinations, we dreamed of cooking and dining in the great outdoors. We considered trading in our RV for one with a larger outdoor kitchen. Although the thought of a new RV was nice, we realized we could spend less than $500 to add an RV outdoor kitchen rather than taking on higher monthly RV payments. 

When we decided to maximize our existing outdoor kitchen’s versatility, adding the Blackstone 17” Tabletop Grill and Griddle ‘N Stow was a no-brainer. The installment process for the Griddle ‘N Stow arm was rather simple. These tips will make the installation easier.

• Make sure you have an open area on your 4” bumper.
• Attach the arm with two U-bolts (you may need help holding the arm in place while someone slips in the bolts).
• Make sure you place your arm flush with your RV bumper.
• Griddle ‘N Stow can hold the Blackstone 17” or 22” grill.
• The knob under the solid table allows you to adjust its placement for proper grill drainage.
• A lynchpin locks the arm in place while towing .

Is it cheaper to build your own outdoor kitchen?

In addition to choosing affordable products like the Blackstone 17” Griddle and the Griddle ‘N Stow mounting arm, we saved money by recycling paint from our RV bathroom remodel and plyboard from our cabinet renovation. We even added a sliding shelf using leftover hardware from a previous project. 

My husband and I grew up a few miles from New Orleans and love NOLA-style decor. We incorporated this look by purchasing foam tile board to give our outdoor kitchen ceiling a creative flair. Our final cost for this project came in around $250. That’s less than most monthly payments you’ll incur by upgrading to a new RV with an outdoor kitchen!

What Are the Pros and Cons of the Blackstone 17” Griddle?

After cooking on the Blackstone 17” griddle a few times, we noted these benefits and drawbacks:

• Even heat. The heat distribution is very even, resulting in perfectly cooked food every time. 
• Versatility. It can be used for various cooking methods, such as grilling, searing, and stir-frying. 
• Flavor. While I have always loved a charcoal grill, the Blackstone has exceeded my flavor, convenience, and versatility expectations. It has earned a permanent place in my outdoor kitchen.
• 267 square inches of cooking space . It seamlessly accommodates all types of cooking and allows you to cook several items at once. 
• Easy to use knob. The grippy knob allows you to easily manage your cooking temperature while staying cool to the touch. 
• LP Quick Connect . This makes it easy to hook up to your RV’s LP connectwithout worrying about carrying around extra propane canisters.
• Weight. The weight of the Blackstone is definitely something to consider. 
• Size. While the Griddle ‘N Stow provides a perfect platform when you’re in camp, remember that you’ll need a secure place to store it during travel. We place it in our outdoor kitchen, but it’s not exactly compact.
• Clean up. The grease pan can be messy, so I’d use the Blackstone Rear Grease Cup liners for easy removal and disposal. I also find that once you cook on the rolled steel surface cooktop, it is hard to clean. I recommend cleaning and conditioning it after every use with the Blackstone Griddle Seasoning and Cast Iron Conditioner .  

What Are the Pros and Cons of the Griddle ‘N Stow?

Accounting for our experience installing and then using the Griddle N’ Stow to cook on our Blackstone griddle, these are its advantages and disadvantages.

• Permanent installation. Having a permanent place to sit our Blackstone when parked at locations is a great asset. Now we don’t have to worry if the campground has a picnic table because we can independently store our Blackstone for easy access and cooking on our RV’s bumper. 
• Easy storage. It folds flat and allows for easy towing, so there’s no worry about getting the Griddle ‘N Stow hung up or snagged on anything when traveling. 
• Arm weight. As easy as the installation was, it was a little difficult for one person to install it independently due to the arm’s weight. I recommend having help to hold it in place when installing.

Is the 17-inch Blackstone Griddle Worth It?

I would recommend the Blackstone 17” On The Go Tabletop Griddle to anyone interested in camping and looking for an easy, versatile grill that can cook a lot of food at once. It’s definitely worth the money and is built to last when kept properly conditioned.

The Blackstone 17” Griddle is great for a smaller family, couple, or even a solo camper who wants the convenience of having a grill without depending on access to campgrounds with picnic tables or carrying their own since it can fit perfectly on the Griddle ‘N Stow. 

The Blackstone 17” Griddle would not best suit a larger family as the cooking space is smaller and doesn’t allow much room for cooking multiple items for large crowds. The griddle can be easy to cook on with either one-pound propane cylinders or the Blackstone Tabletop Griddle to RV propane quick connect for peace of mind about not running out of propane during your dinner prep. 

Would You Recommend the Griddle ‘N Stow?

If you own an RV and a Blackstone Griddle and want less stress when grilling out, you should get the Griddle ‘N Stow. This accessory is worth the investment because it makes grilling a breeze when located conveniently near the outdoor kitchen.  

How Does the Blackstone 17” Griddle Compare to the Competition?

While you can get a similar flat griddle for a cheaper price, you will also be forfeiting Blackstone’s quality. I find the Blackstone brand has a longer lifespan and holds up well when used regularly. That said, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• The Griddle N’ Stow can hold up to the 22” Blackstone Griddle for more cooking surface. 
• The 22” Blackstone E-Series griddle has 358 square inches of cooking space, but it runs solely on electricity and lacks the grill texture and taste.
• The CONTOURE 2-in-1 Grill/Griddle Combo fits on the Griddle ‘N Stow and offers additional cooking versatility.

Dialing in your RV setup is all about getting the right gear that suits your lifestyle. Here are a few more gear reviews you might find interesting: 

• Pit Boss Pellet Grill Review
• The Best Rocking Camping Chairs from GCI Outdoors
• Blackstone 22″ Griddle Review

What questions do you have about adding an outdoor kitchen to your RV? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Best Tents for Camping in Comfort and Style

Comfortable and sturdy shelters with enough room for the whole gang

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Stooping in a lightweight, minimalist, backpacking tent while camping out of your car isn’t much fun. Neither is getting blown over in a flimsy, big-box-store mega shelter. With that in mind, we tested seven new larger camping tents this past year in a quest to find the most luxurious, well-designed, and storm-worthy camping tents for lounging in style, no matter what the forecast looks like.

Be sure to also check out our picks for the best backpacking tents and our favorite camping cooking gear .

At a Glance

• Best Overall: Big Agnes Bunk House 4 ($433)
• Most Durable: Snowpeak Alpha Breeze ($500)
• Best Bonus Feature: MSR Habiscape 4P ($500)
• For Larger Families: The North Face Wawona 8P ($699)
• For Bad Weather: Mountain Hardwear Bridger 4P ($468)

How to Choose a Camping Tent

How we test, meet our lead testers.

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Best Overall

Big agnes bunk house 4.

$433 at Amazon $600 at Moosejaw

Floor area: 58 sq ft (tent), 15-34 sq ft (vestibules) Weight: 16.2 lbs Packed size: 6″ x 16.5″ x 26.5″

Pros and Cons ⊕ Intuitive set-up ⊕ Packs down fairly small ⊗ No bathtub floor

The Bunk House 4 has almost everything we look for in a car camping tent, without any superfluous features adding unnecessary weight, complexity, or bulk. The 6-foot-tall ceilings were high enough for most people to stand under, and near-vertical wall angles made the simple rectangular layout feel more spacious than its approximately 7-foot by 8-foot proportions would suggest.

Despite its tall ceilings, the Bunk House 4 was easy to set up: Five-foot-four category manager Miyo McGinn had no difficulty pitching it solo. The backpack-style carry straps were convenient while loading and unloading the car, though not quite padded enough to comfortably haul the tent any real distance in its carry-on luggage-sized travel bag.

Two testers and seven friends were able to cram inside the 58-square foot main shelter for a rainy afternoon of card games, but we found that the space most comfortably slept three adults or fewer, particularly if they were using larger camping pads or cots. There was plenty of room to stash packs and extra gear out of the weather in the 15-square foot rear vestibule. A 34-square foot front vestibule can function as a mudroom, additional storage space, or be set up as an awning with two included poles. Inside, 16 interior pockets around the sides and ceiling kept small items organized.

The Bunkhouse 4 held sturdy on a gusty evening at the Washington coast with 20 mph gusts (which can’t be said of all tents this tall and wide), thanks to the well-placed, easy to tension guy-out lines anchoring the rainfly to the ground. The 60-denier waterproof polyurethane-coated polyester rainfly and 60-denier tent body held up just fine to light showers, soggy campsites, and oceanside fog and dew. But the lack of a bathtub-style lip along its base—where the denser floor fabric extends a couple inches up the sides to prevent any pooling water from leaking in through the thinner wall material—makes us reticent to give an unqualified endorsement of its waterproofing. This isn’t a disqualifying design for most campers and climates, but we might think twice before pitching this tent in a rainforest.

Most Durable

Snow peak alpha breeze.

$500 at Amazon $500 at Backcountry

Floor area: 121 sq ft Weight: 24.2 lbs Packed size: 4.9” x 8.1” x 6.1” Footprint: 14.9’ x 8.1’ x 6.1’

Pros and Cons ⊕ Four points of entry ⊕ Excellent ventilation ⊕ Durable ⊗ Heavy

The Alpha Breeze showcases Snowpeak’s emphasis on designing elegant, simple products with a decidedly luxurious fee. The top-tier materials—in this case, polyester fabric and duralumin poles—are strong and functional, and durable enough to stay that way for quite a while.

The extra-thick copper-aluminum poles gave us confidence when a sustained 15 mph wind picked up during an overnight on Camano Island in Washington. The structure barely flinched under the gusts, and the forearm-length Douglas fir boughs they knocked down onto our campsite. The 75-denier, DWR-treated polyester taffeta rain fly and 300-denier polyester tent floor both looked brand-new after two dusty, rocky trips in Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains.

Besides the fact that it felt indestructible, Seattle-based tester Maeve Axtell loved the boxy tent’s four doors, with one on each side. “It was easy to get in and out without disturbing other people sleeping in the tent, and when it got warm we could get cross-breezes from every direction,” said Axtell. The tent’s high ceiling and two mesh-covered “windows” on opposite walls contributed to the spacious feeling inside that the four doors created, although all those openings only left space for four mesh pockets and 10 loops to stash small essentials inside.

All good things come at a cost, though, and with the Alpha Breeze, the cost is weight. Despite its heft, it’s not excessively bulky and doesn’t take up an unreasonable amount of trunk real estate. Another ding? It’s not especially easy to set up: and the tent’s 6-plus-foot height makes the Breeze a tad unwieldy to pitch. Testers ultimately forgave those shortcomings, since both features made for a rock-solid pitch and roomy, comfortable interior.

Best Bonus Feature

Msr habiscape 4p.

$500 at REI $500 at Backcountry

Weight: 12.7 lbs Height: 73 inches Interior space: 62.5 sq. ft. + 23.5 sq. ft. vestibule

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lots of livable space ⊕ Highly weatherproof ⊗ Mediocre ventilation

There’s a lot we liked about the Habiscape, from the generous elbow room (86 square feet including the vestibule) to the ample standing height (73 inches), but it was a dual-sided pocket that hooked us. Next to the door MSR built in something they call a “pass-thru pocket”—a bug mesh-lined portal that’s accessible from both inside and out. Without opening the door, testers could reach through to grab car keys, bug spray or a headlamp. “It seems like a little thing, but the convenience was huge,” says Chris Baikie, a British Columbia-based tester. “There were definitely fewer bugs in the tent because of it.”

Set-up for the Habiscape requires two people, but the asymmetric design and color-coding helped make it quick and easy. The dome structure and low-hanging 68-denier polyester fly stood up to a 20 mile-per-hour windstorm with little flapping. The rest of the tent is equally tough, with the same 68-denier poly on the floor, 40-denier ripstop nylon walls, and 7000 series aluminum tent poles.

We had to duck under the vestibule door to get inside, but it provided enough room for a cooler and gear, and kept drips out of the tent during rainstorms. A second door came in handy for frequent nighttime bathroom excursions. The Habiscape packs down easily, and ends up smaller than many tents of its size, at roughly nine inches by two feet. “It’s almost perfect,” says lead tester Ryan Stuart. “And it’s not even that heavy.”

Best for Families

The north face wawona 8p.

$699 at REI $699 at Amazon

Weight: 18.1 lbs Height: 77 inches Interior space: 112 sq. ft. + 44.7 sq. ft. vestibule

Pros and Cons ⊕ Massive vestibule ⊕ Room divider ⊗ Large footprint makes it hard to fit into some campsites

The Wawona is big all over—and that’s a good thing. In a decade of tent testing for Outside, this might be the biggest tent that tester Ryan Stuart has ever slept in. There’s plenty of room for eight to lay down in the 112 square foot area, though we mostly tested it with smaller groups. Cumberland, B.C.-based tester John Waters used the Wawona like a bunk house at his in-laws’ cabin on British Columbia’s Denman Island. By hanging the optional mesh wall, which splits the tent down the middle, he created two rooms and stuck his two kids on one side, while he and his wife enjoyed a bit of privacy on the other.

The mesh pockets in each corner are big enough to hold a laptop. The expansive, 45-square-foot vestibule alone is nearly the size of a three-person backpacking tent. “You can stand up in it,” remarked Waters. “We had two deck chairs and a small table in there.”

He wasn’t as keen on the door. It opens wide and tall—no stooping or ducking required—but the bathtub floor is 10 inches tall, enough to create a tripping hazard, particularly for fast-moving kids. The complementary high-cut fly, however, left lots of room for venting windows while preventing sideways rain from entering.

Most impressive was the set up. “It’s huge, but I still managed to get it up by myself,” says Stuart. “That’s rare for any car camping tent.” Color-coding and manageable pole lengths were key for raising the roof on this mansion. Ironically for those trying to avoid RV camping areas, the eight-by-eight footprint is so big that it can be hard to fit the Wawona into smaller, tent camping-only campgrounds.

Best for Bad Weather

Mountain hardwear bridger 4p.

$585 at Backcountry $468 at Mountain Hardwear

Weight: 18.6 lbs Height: 66 inches Interior space: 62.5 sq. ft. + 69 sq. ft. vestibule

Pros and Cons ⊕ Bombproof design ⊕ Big vestibule ⊗ Smaller second door

There are two types of car campers in the world: those who cherry-pick sunny weekends, and those who head out no matter the conditions. Mountain Hardwear drew on its mountaineering tent heritage to design the Bridger for the latter.

The thick, 68-denier ripstop polyester on the fly extends right to the ground on all sides—a rarity in this category—to keep rain and backsplash away from the tent. Aluminum tentpoles create a domed main structure, while a separate hoop pole lifts the fly, giving the Bridger both a roomy- and weather-shedding shape. During a thunderstorm in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest, where winds whipped up to 30 miles per hour, testers created a bombproof pitch using adjustable stake-out loops at each of the six pole-tent connection points, as well as guy-out attachments on the fly.

The main vestibule is bigger than the tent itself, with a floor and removable storage panel that has six pockets large enough to fit a bike helmet, and opens far from the interior for drip-free entry. “The vestibule is effectively a mud room,” said tester Adam Sauerwein, a roving Vanlifer. Four more mesh sleeves inside hold smaller items, like headlamps and phones. The storage adds livability to the tent, which Sauerwein says feels roomy for four. Setting it up at camp was simple, he says, with color-coded poles, although packing it back up is a bit awkward, owing to a tight stuff sack.

The premium fabric and extra square footage makes the tent heavy, though not especially bulky for its size. If you plan to car camp in all seasons, the robust build promises years of dependably dry nights.

Size and Dimensions

Start with the number of people who will be sleeping in the tent and add at least one. No one ever complained about a little extra elbow room, and ultra-wide camping pads often need extra space. Next, consider packability: If you have limited storage or trunk space, a more packable option will make jamming it between all of the coolers and propane easier. Height is crucial, but comes with a tradeoff: Being able to stand up to get dressed or stretch your legs is nice, but means it will be harder to set up, especially if you’re doing it solo.

Feature Set

Look for ample pockets for staying organized, big vestibules and/or high bathtub walls that protect the interior from blowing rain, multiple venting options, and roomy doors. Of course, a tent’s principal job is to protect you from the elements, so weatherproofing should be a primary consideration. A fly that reaches to the ground provides the most coverage, but can also limit venting, making for uncomfortably stuffy conditions when it’s hot. A tall pole structure is susceptible to high winds, so make sure the tent has plenty of guy-out points for stabilizing and protecting the tent from gusts.

Price is always important, but try to prioritize value. Spending a bit more for a tent with more durable materials, like higher denier fabrics and burly aluminum poles, will save you money in the long run. You can find a no frills, serviceable four-person summer tent in the $200 range, with waterproofing, durability, and reparability generally improving as you start getting into higher price ranges.

But if you’re looking for a tent to use three seasons of the year, that you expect to get a lot of use in stormy weather, or that you’d like to use for the rest of your life, we recommend budgeting between $350 and $600. That’s the cost of more reliable construction and waterproofing—which, as all of our testers who have woken up to puddles inside their tents can tell you, is priceless when you really need it.

• Testers: 14
• Products tested: 7
• States visited: 5
• Tent stakes bent: 3

This year’s batch of seven tents was put through their paces by 14 testers, who ranged in age between 18 months (car camping with a toddler is possible!) and 68 years old. Each tent was used on at least two trips, and the most popular—the Big Agnes Bunk House 4—ended up seeing almost four weeks of use when testers kept coming back to it. The worst weather these tents endured was two June days of non-stop rain in Yellowstone; the best was six straight days of mild blue skies in Washington’s San Juan Islands in August.

Testers rated each tent they used based on durability, weather-proofing, comfort, and ease of use/set-up. They also offered qualitative feedback on design details they loved or hated, what type of camper or setting a tent is best suited to, and, at the end of the day, whether they’d recommend it to a friend. The tents here are the ones that earned the highest praise across the board.

Miyo McGinn is an assistant editor at Outside based in Bozeman, Montana. She has camped in a dozen different states and four continents, but Washington state, where she grew up, will always be her favorite place to pitch a tent. McGinn got her start reviewing gear as Outside ’s gear editorial assistant in 2021.

Ryan Stuart became a freelance writer when he realized he’d never get paid to play doing any of his other passions, possibly because he has too many of them. He’s a pretty good skier, decent paddler, hiker, and runner, and loves to make mountain biking, surfing, and rock climbing look harder than it is. Whenever he can, he practices those activities from a campsite somewhere far from other humans.

• 2024 Summer Gear Guide
• Car Camping
• Three-Season Tents

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The best camping gear, according to National Geographic staff

From sturdy tents to cozy sleeping bags, these are the tried-and-true camping essentials we love.

There's no way to know if camping gear will really work without testing it out, so we polled staffers at National Geographic on their favorite tried and true camping gear. Our top choices cover the essentials, ensuring you're equipped for any adventure. From sturdy tents to cozy sleeping bags, our camping gear list includes stuff you'll want to bring on your next adventure, whether you're the car camping type or a rugged wilderness explorer.  

Our picks for the best camping gear

The best camping gear, according to nat geo staff.

Here are the products our staff members love.

Our favorite dish pan for camping: Tiawudi Collapsable Dish Pan

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   We love the convenience and quality of the Tiawudi Collapsible Dish Pan, especially its collapsible design, which is great for outdoor enthusiasts who want to maximize storage efficiency without sacrificing functionality. When expanded, the dishpan holds up to 8.5 liters (2.25 gallons). It collapses to about 3.8 inches and can easily be tucked away.  

We also like that the dish pan's material is durable and made with flexible thermoplastic rubber. The plastic rim and base feel sturdy enough to withstand the potential weight, and the dishpan is also BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. Plus, those who have purchased the pan rave about its quality, ease of storage, and durability, highlighting its versatility for all kinds of camping adventures.

“It's so convenient and easy to pack without taking up too much space. It's great for cleaning dishes at the campsite or storing dirty dishes to wash when I get home." —Shannon Ullman, e-commerce content strategist

Keep in mind:   While the Tiawudi pan is collapsible, some users have found the collapsed height of 3.8 centimeters slightly taller than expected, which could affect storage in certain situations.  

Product details: Capacity: 8.51 liters | Collapsed Height:   3.81 centimeters | Expanded Measurements:   40 cm x 28.89 cm W x 14.92 cm H  

Our favorite men’s hiking boots: Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof

Why we like it:   The top spot for our favorite men’s hiking boots goes to the Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof boot because of its thoughtful design. The B-Dry waterproofing material is claimed to give the boots a breathable yet waterproof quality, allowing sweat to ventilate without letting moisture in. Customers back the claim up, noting that the boot stays incredibly dry through wet and muddy conditions.   Another feature that stands out to us is Oboz’s proprietary EVA rubber midsole, which gives the shoe a lighter feel without compromising on durability. The boot's height also offers good ankle support on rocky terrain.  

“Comfortable, durable, and with all the support you could ever need—these are the shoes you're looking for when thinking of hiking boots. They are just as good for backcountry trails as they are for a walking tour of downtown. Worth every penny.” —Nathan Strauss, partner development and solutions manager

Keep in mind:   While the majority of customers praise the quality and comfort of these boots, opinions on the sizing of the boots are mixed, with some reviews noting that the boots tend to run small.  

Product details: Weight:   19.4 oz | Heel drop:   8mm | Size range: 7-15, regular and wide width | Color options: 4 colors | Lacing:   Traditional | Materials: B-Dry membrane and mesh upper, rubberized EVA midsole

Our favorite lantern for camping: LuminAID Solar Camping Lantern

Why we like it:   Our staff's favorite lantern is the LuminAID solar camping lantern, thanks to its brightness and its portability. With 75 lumens of LED light, multiple brightness settings, and the choice between a bright white and warm white light, the lantern works for both indoor and outdoor use.  

We like the versatility of the lantern, being chargeable by USB and solar power (it takes about 10 hours of bright sunlight to fully charge). The lantern is also collapsible, saving valuable packing space. An added bonus is the history of the lantern. The lantern was initially featured on Shark Tank , and created to be a cost-effective light solution for areas hit by disasters.  

“It packs up small, so it's easy to carry, and you can easily recharge it by USB or solar power.” —Amy McKeever, digital editorial manager

Keep in mind:   While the LuminAID solar camping lantern is chargeable by solar power, some users have found the charging time via solar to be too slow in less sunny conditions. It may not be the best option to rely on for extended camping trips if bright sunlight is not guaranteed.  

Product details: Weight: 5.3 oz | Brightness:   75 lumens | Charging options: solar and USB |   Battery life:   Up to 24 hours | Colors: Bright white and warm white

Our favorite sleeping bag for camping: Marmot Sawtooth 15° Sleeping Bag

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it: The Marmot Sawtooth 15° Sleeping Bag made it on our staff’s best camping gear list thanks to its warmth, versatility, and thoughtful design features for a relatively affordable price. The dual side zippers and zippered foot box allow for easy temperature regulation, letting you customize your sleeping experience to stay just right, whether you're camping in chilly temperatures or warmer climates. Additionally, features like the hood and draft collar ensure that warmth is distributed evenly and retained throughout the night.  

With a temperature rating of 15 degrees Fahrenheit and 650-fill-power down insulation (indicating the quality of the down), this three-season sleeping bag ensures a cozy night's sleep even in milder winter weather conditions. We also like that Marmot only uses Responsible Down Standard certified down in its products.  

“Super warm, packs into a size slightly bigger than a Nalgene.” —Francis Rivera, manager of digital engagement

Keep in mind:   Although very warm, the Sawtooth 15° is not a tight-packing, lightweight sleeping bag thanks to the 650-fill-power, and it may not be the best camping gear for those who need ultralight gear. The sleeping bag zipper design can also be limiting to taller individuals as the zippers only extend halfway down the bag.  

Product details:   Temperature Rating: 15°F | Fill: 650-fill-power duck down | Weight:   Regular: 2 lbs. 14.2 oz., Long: 3 lbs. 0.3 oz. | Shell:   Recycled nylon

Our favorite camping tent: NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P Tent

Why we like it:   The NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P is a lightweight backpacking tent that can fit up to two people in all kinds of weather. Thanks to the OSMO™ polyester/nylon ripstop fabric, which has been updated from previous versions, the tent is water-repellent for up to four times longer, according to the company.  

The tent’s design is also convenient, with color-coded poles and webbing. A few thoughtful touches that we appreciate are the Nightlight Pockets™, which hold headlamps in place to make a little tent lantern, and the storage area on the side for gear. We also really like the fact that the fabric is made of 100 percent recycled material and doesn’t use fire-retardant chemicals.

“Great tent for backpacking. Small footprint, quick and simple set up and take down, light enough to pack with you for short trips. Best for one person, but can fit two comfortably, plus it has a decent headroom.” —Jess Elder, senior manager, digital experience

Keep in mind: While this tent is lightweight, it’s not the lightest backpacking tent out there. Some users have also highlighted that the tent’s bottom isn’t entirely waterproof, especially when pitched on damp ground. If you’re using it on wet grounds, we recommend purchasing the groundsheet as well.  

Product details:   Seasons: 3-season | Capacity:   2-person | Weight: 4lb 3oz | Design type: Freestanding | Floor area: 31.3 square feet | Peak height: 42 inches

Our favorite trail maps: National Geographic Trails Illustrated Maps

Why we like it:   National Geographic has an extensive offering of trail maps, with 416 trail-illustrated titles, including national parks. This isn’t the only reason they’re our favorite trail map. The topographic maps are packed with information for different usages, indicating everything from backroads and trails and campgrounds to mines and shipwrecks. One reviewer even noted that their National Geographic map often had more information than the National Park Service visitor center.  

A detail that we love? The illustrated maps retain the best part of a paper map—being able to write on them—without the inconveniences of the traditional paper map. Made with a material that is both waterproof and tear-resistant, they’re meant to survive in rugged environments.  

“They're printed on backcountry tough waterproof and tear-resistant material. These topographic maps are a must-have for serious hikers and backpackers. Other features include full amenities at campgrounds and trailheads, and trail use designations to know which trails are appropriate for equestrians, bikes, and motorized vehicles.” —Chris Knoll, senior cartographic editor

Keep in mind:   While waterproof, some reviewers have pointed out that certain liquids like insect repellent and sunscreen can cause the map to smear.  

Product details: Weight:   3 oz | Folded size:   varies around 4.25" x 9.25"  

Our favorite camping stove: Jetboil Flash

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: Our favorite camping stove is the Jetboil Flash. The Flash system is incredibly convenient to set up, and the boil speed is rapid. It holds up to one liter of water, making it a good option for two-person camping trips.  

The camping stove is easy to use, with a push-button ignitor that instantly turns the stove on. The sleeve even has a color-changing heat indicator to help save fuel as the water gets closer to boiling. We also love that the cooking cup is designed with insulation and a handle for easier maneuvering of hot liquids. An added bonus? It comes with a lid designed for drinking. It’s easy to detach the cooking cup and take it to go.  

“Wake up in the morning and want a quick coffee? Need hot water for dinner after a long hike? Jetboil’s full suite of products is the perfect camp kitchen addition, whether you’re a car-camping gourmet chef or a backpacker. The flash system is compact and will last you years.” —Amanda Polli, senior writer/producer

Keep in mind:   The Jetboil Flash is incredibly convenient for most camping situations, but it is heavy at 13.1 oz. If you’re looking for a super lightweight camping stove, there are better options for the best backpacking stoves . The stove is also not the best camping gear option for foods that require simmering, as no simmer control is included.  

Product details: Liquid capacity: 1 liter |   Boil time:   100 seconds for 16 oz | Weight: 13.1 oz   | Fuel type: Isobutane fuel canister

Our favorite item for stargazing: ZWO Seestar S50

Buy it now at   B & H

Why we like it: Mitchell Stover, our technical editor, raves about the ZWO Seestar S50 as his favorite portable stargazing telescope. Don’t let the size of this smart telescope fool you, the Seestar S50 captures surprisingly clear images. We love that it seamlessly integrates with smartphones, bridging the gap for stargazing enthusiasts who don’t want to lug around heavy and complicated equipment. Reviewers have also pointed out how easy the smart telescope is to set up.  

The best part? You can try your hand at astrophotography with this piece of cool camping gear. The air-space triplet apochromatic lens, the light pollution filter, and the solar filter are all features that we love. The live-stacking capabilities also allow you to enhance your photos in real time. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, along with 65 GB of internal memory, prepare to have this telescope cement its place on your favorite camping gear list, too.  

“This small, portable smart telescope allows you to navigate the night sky without the hassle. With just about anything you could want from a small telescope, this all-in-one package is great for getting families excited about the night sky. With it, you can view nebulae, galaxies, some planets, and much more.” —Mitchell Stover, technical editor

Keep in mind:   Some users have noted that there is a small learning curve for leveling the Seesar S50; we recommend familiarizing yourself with the telescope first if you have a specific astronomical event you’d like to capture.  

Product details: Maximum Extended Height:   363mm | Compact Storage Length: 274.5mm | Net Weight:   2.5 kg | Internal Memory:   64GB

Our favorite camping chair: REI Co-op Outward Low Lawn Chair

Why we like it: The Outward Lown lawn chair was designed for you to sink into, and that’s why it’s one of the best camping chairs for us. With heavy-duty, 300-denier ripstop polyester, this chair is highly resistant to rips and has a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish to fight off light rain and any stains from accidental ketchup drips. It’s fully padded and can hold up to 250 pounds.  

We love the inclusion of backpack straps and a carry handle for convenient trips to and from the car. The lawn chair also has a secure closure system to keep the chair closed while transporting. A convenient byproduct of this design is that you can also carry blankets or beach towels in the folded chair as well.  

“I love this camping chair because it's super comfy and low to the ground, which is perfect for cooking marshmallows at the fire or eating off a small camping side table. It also has backpack straps so you can easily take it to an outdoor concert, a friend's backyard, or a short hike away from your campsite.” —Shannon Ullman, e-commerce content strategist

Keep in mind:   This lawn chair’s low-to-the-ground design isn’t suitable for those who may struggle with mobility or those who prefer to sit higher above the ground.  

Product details: Weight: 6lb 9oz | Capacity: 250 lb | Seat material: Polyester | Frame:   Aluminum

Our favorite outdoor lamps: Ralbay Portable Outdoor Lamps

Why we like it: These versatile and practical lamps are designed specifically for outdoor use and are ideal for camping, picnics, backyard gatherings, and other outdoor activities. As our e-commerce content strategist Shannon says, this cool camping gear is the splurge to make any campsite feel more luxurious.  

The lamps are wireless and battery-operated, conveniently charging through a covered USB port. We also appreciate their IP54 waterproof rating, considering they’re designed for outdoor usage. For us, a small but appreciated touch is the light indicator that changes color when the lamps are done charging.  

"I never would have thought to buy these, but a friend recently brought them on a camping trip. I would only recommend these lamps if you're car camping or have an RV because they are bulky. It made our campsite dinner feel like a luxury outdoor restaurant experience or a speakeasy. These lights are not camping essentials, but if you want to add a little luxury to your camp setup, these table lamps will do the trick." —Shannon Ullman,   e-commerce content strategist

Keep in mind: The charging time of these outdoor lamps has received mixed reviews, so build in some extra time if you’re planning to use them for an event or a trip.  

Product details: Weight: 4.91lbs | Brightness: 240 lumens | Charging options:   USB | Battery life: 8-24 hours |   Color options:   6 colors  

Tips for buying the best camping gear

Where are you camping?

Consider the location of your camping trip, whether it's in a mountainous area, a desert, a forest, or near water bodies like lakes or rivers. Different environments require different hiking gear . What weather conditions, terrain, and available amenities are you expecting?

What season are you camping in?

Select camping gear appropriate for the season you'll be camping in. For summer camping, prioritize lightweight and breathable materials; for winter camping, focus on insulation and weatherproofing to stay warm and dry. Spring and fall camping may require a combination of gear suitable for varying temperatures and weather conditions.

Are you tent camping, car camping, or in an RV?

Choose camping gear that matches your camping style. For tent camping, prioritize lightweight and compact gear that can be easily transported and set up. Car camping allows for more spacious and comfortable gear options, including larger tents, camping chairs, and portable grills. RV camping offers the convenience of bringing along home comforts, so consider space-saving and versatile gear to enhance your experience.

What activities will you be doing?

When putting together your must-have camping checklist, consider the activities you'll participate in during your camping trip, such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, or relaxing by the campfire. Then, choose gear that supports your chosen activities, such as hiking boots, fishing gear, water sports equipment, or comfortable seating options for lounging.

How often are you camping?

The number of usages you’ll realistically get out of a product should be considered when comparing the quality and price of the gear on your list. If you only go camping once or twice a year, the most high-end gear may not be worth the splurge for you.  

What is the environmental impact of the gear?

Opt for cool camping gear from brands committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes to minimize your environmental footprint.

Frequently asked questions

What are some of the best camping gear brands?

Brands like REI Co-op, Coleman, and Kelty are renowned for their high-quality camping gear, offering a wide range of products designed for durability, performance, and comfort in the outdoors. Reliable camping gear brands should have a combination of longevity and performance.

What is a must-have for camping?

A few basic must-haves for camping are a camping tent, sleeping bag, and stove. If you don’t know where to start, you can reference our beginner camping checklist . Depending on the type of camping you enjoy, you can add or subtract from the camping gear list.

Related Topics

• PRODUCT ROUNDUP
• OUTDOOR GEAR
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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