Essential RV accessories for first-time owners focus on safety, utility, and sanitation, including a water pressure regulator, surge protector, wheel chocks, sewer hose kit, and leveling blocks. Must-have items also feature a drinking-water-safe hose, basic toolkit, and tire pressure gauge to ensure a comfortable and safe initial experience.
Must Have Accessories
Electrical & Safety
- Surge Protector (EMS): Protects RV electronics from faulty campground power.
- Electrical Adapters (Dogsbones): Adapts 30-amp to 50-amp or vice versa.
- Heavy-Duty Extension Cord: For shore power connections.
Water & Sanitation
- Water Pressure Regulator: Protects RV plumbing from high-pressure spigots.
- Drinking Water Safe Hose: Specifically for potable water (often white or blue).
- Inline Water Filter: Improves water quality.
- Sewer Hose Kit & Support: Essential for waste disposal; look for 15-20ft kits.
- Disposable Gloves: For sanitary handling of sewer equipment.
- Black Tank Chemicals: For odor control.
- RV Toilet Paper: Quick-dissolving to prevent clogs.
Setup & Maintenance
- Wheel Chocks: Prevents the RV from rolling.
- Leveling Blocks/Jacks: Ensures the RV is level for appliance function.
- Tire Pressure Gauge/Inflator: Crucial for safety.
- Basic Tool Kit:
- Wrenches and ratchet/socket set
- Screwdrivers (Phillips, flathead, torx, Robertson, hex, etc.)
- Hammer
- Drill
- Duct tape
- Zip ties
- Pliers
- Replacement fuse kit
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
Comfort & Convenience
- Collapsible Items: Kitchen gear (bowls, colanders) to save space.
- Bedside Organizers: Maximizes small space storage.
- Coffee Maker/Instant Pot: For easy cooking.
- Camping Chairs & Outdoor Mat
First Aid Kit
A properly stocked first aid kit should include bandages and wound dressings, sterile gauze, antiseptic solutions, hand sanitizer or soap to wash, tweezers, scissors, cold/hot packs, OTC pain killers, non-latex gloves, and personal prescription medications, etc.
Nice to Have Accessories
- Solar lights
- Grill, smoker, outdoor stove or other portable cooking appliances
- Wi-Fi booster
- Storage organizers
- Collapsible tables
- Bug repellent and citronella candles
- Binoculars or a telescope
- Water dish or other accessories for pets
- Cameras
- Spare tire (checked and inflated)
- RV extension cords + extra power bars/extension cords
- Sewer treatment pills (RV holding tank treatment drops)
- Flashlights
- Portable power banks
Fun Have Accessories
Outdoor Living & Ambiance
- Camping Hammock: A comfortable hammock is a great way to relax, read a book, or stargaze at the campsite.
- Portable Propane Fire Pit: Enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a campfire without the smoke or the hassle of finding firewood, especially in areas with fire bans.
- Outdoor Camping Rug: A colorful or patterned outdoor mat provides a clean and comfortable space outside your RV, helping to keep the interior clean and adding a homey feel.
- Solar String Lights: Waterproof, battery-operated or solar-powered fairy lights can be strung under the awning to create a charming, warm ambiance after the sun sets.
Décor & Personalization
- State Sticker Travel Map: A UV-resistant map that you can display on the inside or outside of your RV and add a new sticker for every state or location you visit. It serves as a visual travel tracker and a conversation starter.
- “Back That Thing Up” Camper Sign: Humorous and personalized signs, like the “Back That Thing Up Camper Sign, Funny RV Décor, Cabin Wall Art”, add character to your RV and can spark laughter.
- Flameless Candles: These battery-operated LED candles provide a cozy and romantic atmosphere inside or outside the RV without any fire hazard.
Entertainment & Connectivity
- A portable game console is great for entertaining the whole family, especially on rainy days or during travel, as many games do not require internet access.
- Bluetooth Speakers: A portable Bluetooth speaker allows you to enjoy music or podcasts anywhere, from hanging out under the awning to relaxing on a nearby beach.
- Board Games and Card Games: Classic entertainment options like board games and cards are essential for family fun and social interaction during downtime.
Finally…
Planning is essential when it comes to RV adventures. Plan your route, timeline, destinations, setups, and gear well in advance of your departure.
Keep it simple and start with the essential accessories you feel will enhance your experience.
Know your rig. If you plan to spend a lot of time RVing, get familiar with your RV inside and out. Learn about its water, electricity, propane, and sewage systems before hitting the road.
Upgrade your gear as you gain experience. No first-time RV trip will be perfect. However, as you gain experience, you’ll learn what you need, what you don’t need, and what you wish you had known beforehand.
Pack smart. It’s always better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have. But space is limited when traveling in an RV. So don’t pack excessively.
Driving or towing an RV is different than just driving a car. The size of an RV means it will handle differently. It’s therefore beneficial to practice turning, reversing, and parking before heading out on your first trip.
Check campground or park rules. Every campground or park has different rules regarding RVs. Be sure to check and know them. When in doubt, ask park staff.
Maintain your RV to prevent leaks, flat tires, RV tire blowouts, and other problems. Inspecting, repairing, and maintaining your rig reduces your risk of problems while traveling.
Purchase quality gear. Investing in good-quality gear means fewer headaches on the road.
ENJOY MAKING MEMORIES WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY
