Must-Have RV Accessories: The Ultimate Guide for RV Camping Essentials
- Wisher the Cat
- Jul 30
- 7 min read
If you're getting ready for the open road lifestyle, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time explorer, having the right RV accessories is absolutely key. From first-time RV camping to seasoned road-trip veterans, the world of must-have RV accessories is filled with smart upgrades, convenient RV parts and accessories, and clever camping hacks.
In this guide, we’ll outline the must-have essentials for every newcomer to the RV lifestyle. We will also introduce you to top products that will enhance your journey, ensuring it is easy, comfortable, and safe.
Discover Ready-Made Dream Boards of RV Accessories
We've already crafted curated dream boards of the best RV accessories, must-have RV camping essentials. Explore these pre-made RV wish lists, view the details, and save your favorites for your next RV adventure with a single click—all on Wisher.
Before we begin, let's address some common questions.
What is RV?
An RV (Recreational Vehicle) is a motorized or towable vehicle equipped with living space and amenities found in a home—think beds, kitchen, bathroom, and lounging areas—making it ideal for travel, road trips, and camping. RV camping lets you bring the comfort of home wherever you go, from national parks to lakeside getaways and beyond.
In Europe, RVs are usually called:
Caravan (for towables)
Motorhome (for drivable RVs)
Campervan (smaller, van-based RVs)
How Do You Get Internet in an RV?
Staying connected on the road is easier than ever for today’s RVers:
Campground WiFi: Many RV parks offer WiFi, but speeds can vary.
Mobile Hotspots: Using hotspots from your phone or a dedicated device is a reliable way to get internet.
Cellular Data Plans: Invest in a data plan from providers like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile.
Signal Boosters: Enhance weak signals with devices like the WeBoost RV Signal Booster.
Satellite Internet: Starlink - ideal solution for remote locations, though setup can be more costly.
Essential things which I should grab on board?
When gearing up for any RV camping trip, there are some non-negotiable essentials every RVer should have on board to ensure safety, convenience, and comfort. Here’s a quick checklist:
RV Power Cords & Adapters: Your main shore power cord, plus a “dog bone” adapter for connecting to different amperage outlets at campgrounds.
Surge Protector or EMS: Protects your RV’s electrical system and appliances from power surges and faults.
Clean Water Essentials: In-line water filter, water pressure regulator, safe drinking hose, extra hose gaskets, and a 90° fitting for easy connection.
Sewer & Waste Supplies: High-quality sewer hose (like Camco RhinoFLEX), rubber gloves, clear elbow adapter, tank treatment chemicals, and a sturdy storage bin for these items.
Leveling Gear: Leveling ramps/blocks, wheel chocks, and a reliable bubble level to ensure a stable and even setup.
Tire Safety: TireMinder TPMS, digital tire pressure gauge, portable air compressor, quality tire protectant, and basic tire-changing tools.
Toolkit: Socket set, pliers, screwdrivers (with assorted bits), duct/electrical/teflon tape, utility knife, zip ties, hammer, mallet, spare fuses, flashlight/headlamp, work gloves, and a basic voltmeter.
Emergency Essentials: First aid kit, fire extinguisher (check it’s charged!), reflective triangles, high-visibility vest, jumper cables, and bottle jack.
Comfort Items: Upgraded RV mattress, bedding, plastic kitchenware, drinking water, camping chairs, outdoor mat, and umbrellas/rain ponchos.
Operation/Maintenance: Owner’s manual, checklists, sealant, scrapers, and exterior bulbs.
Personal Items: Cell phone with checklists, ID, insurance papers, snacks, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Top RV Accessories: A Detailed Guide to Must-Have Gear
Explore the best rv accessories and rv camping accessories—each product below includes practical insights, brand details, pricing, usage experience, specs, and smart buying tips.
Brand: Camco
Price: ~$20 (2-pack)
Experience: Reliable water filtration on the road; easy to install and widely recommended within the RV community.
Key Specs: Filters bacteria, bad taste, and sediment; attaches directly to RV hose.
Interesting Features: NSF certified; comes with flexible hose protector to reduce stress.
Description: Delivers clean, safe water at every campground. Easily screws onto your hose and significantly improves taste and safety for drinking or cooking.
Tips & Considerations: Replace every 3-6 months. Look for multi-stage filter kits for maximum protection in areas with questionable water quality.
How It Affects Your Trip: Ensures both health and comfort, preventing common RV water issues.
Brand: Renator, Camco
Price: $15–$30
Experience: Prevents expensive plumbing damage by controlling high/erratic water pressure at campgrounds.
Key Specs: Brass body, adjustable from 0-160 PSI, easy gauge display.
Interesting Features: Customizable pressure setting for your RV specs.
Description: Protects your RV’s pipes and fixtures, and reduces risk of leaks or bursts.
Tips & Considerations: Always set to 45–50 PSI unless your RV manual specifies otherwise.
How It Affects Your Trip: Peace of mind and greater longevity for your RV’s plumbing.
Brand: Camco, Zero-G
Price: $30–$40 (for 50-foot)
Experience: Lightweight, kink-resistant, and safe for potable water.
Key Specs: Lead-free, BPA free, flexible even in cold weather.
Interesting Features: Many RVers now choose collapsible hoses for space-saving storage.
Description: Provides reliable, safe water supply for drinking and cleaning.
Tips & Considerations: Go for 50 ft or longer for unpredictable campground layouts.
How It Affects Your Trip: Reduces hassles, avoids taste/odor issues, and makes setup easier.
Brand: Hughes Autoformer
Price: $270-$350 (depending on 30A or 50A)
Experience: Premium electrical management and surge protection—remotely monitor power quality via Bluetooth.
Key Specs: Emergency power shutoff, replaceable surge module, mobile app connectivity.
Interesting Features: The only system with a replaceable surge module—saves you from replacing the entire EMS after a power event.
Description: Safeguards your RV’s electrical system from surges, low/good voltage, and wiring faults.
Tips & Considerations: Match the unit to your RV’s amp rating (30A or 50A). Add spare modules for emergencies.
How It Affects Your Trip: Protects expensive appliances and wiring, reducing stress and repair costs.
Brand: Camco, Conntek
Price: $15–$30
Experience: Ensures power access regardless of campground plug type.
Key Specs: Heavy-duty connectors; options for 30-to-50 and 50-to-30 amp conversion.
Interesting Features: Durable handles for easy unplugging.
Description: Lets you connect to more campsite power pedestals—vital for flexibility.
Tips & Considerations: Always check amp compatibility before plugging in.
How It Affects Your Trip: Avoids power problems and boosts campground compatibility.
Brand: Camco
Price: $35–$45 (includes hose, fittings, and adapters)
Experience: Trusted, reliable, collapsible; makes messy jobs safer and easier.
Key Specs: 20 feet, crush-resistant, clear elbow fitting.
Interesting Features: Clear elbow shows flow so you know when the tank runs clean.
Description: No-skimp essential for hygienic wastewater management.
Tips & Considerations: Store sewer accessories in a dedicated bin—NOT your RV bumper.
How It Affects Your Trip: Prevents unwanted leaks and odors; crucial for smooth camping world RV adventures.
Brand: Matt’s RV Reviews / Liquified
Price: ~$25 (32 treatments)
Experience: Powerful odor control and waste breakdown with a pleasant scent.
Key Specs: Suitable for black and gray tanks, orange scent.
Interesting Features: Highly rated for breaking down solids, works in both hot and cold weather.
Description: Keeps your tanks clean and camping stress-free.
Tips & Considerations: Also add Thetford toilet seal conditioner for best results.
How It Affects Your Trip: Improves tank function, eliminates smells—an underrated comfort upgrade.
Brand: TireMinder
Price: $350–$400
Experience: Real-time tire pressure and temperature alerts—safer travels for all.
Key Specs: 5” color screen, up to 22 tire sensors, rechargeable.
Interesting Features: Free annual sensor battery replacements.
Description: Identifies slow leaks, blowouts, or overheating before they cause trouble.
Tips & Considerations: Combine with a portable air compressor like TireMinder’s own for total peace of mind.
How It Affects Your Trip: Prevents costly damage and increases on-the-road safety.
Brand: Brooklyn Bedding
Price: $800–$1500 (varies by size & model; often with discounts)
Experience: Hotel-quality comfort customized for RV dimensions.
Key Specs: Multiple firmness options, standard and RV-specific sizes.
Interesting Features: 120-night trial, free shipping, 10-year warranty.
Description: Instantly boosts sleep quality—making your RV truly feel like home.
Tips & Considerations: Use the website’s mattress finder to match your sleep style.
How It Affects Your Trip: Better rest, better adventures; don’t underestimate this comfort upgrade!
Brand: 303 Products
Price: ~$15 (16oz spray bottle)
Experience: Maintains rubber, vinyl, and plastics against cracking and UV damage.
Key Specs: Non-greasy, water-based, superior UV protection.
Interesting Features: Multi-surface protection—great for tires and interior trims.
Description: Keeps your RV looking sharp and ensures tire longevity.
Tips & Considerations: Regular use extends the life of exterior RV parts and accessories.
How It Affects Your Trip: Reduces long-term maintenance; more fun, less hassle.
Brand: Carmtec
Price: ~$40 (set of 2-4)
Experience: Easy leveling for cozy, stable parking.
Key Specs: Supports various RV weights, anti-slip, durable design.
Interesting Features: Works even on soft or uneven terrain.
Description: Essential for a stable RV setup, prevents appliance/personal discomfort.
Tips & Considerations: Pair with anti-slip mats for best results.
How It Affects Your Trip: Faster setup, safer and more comfortable camping every time.
Brand: TireMinder (compressor), Accutire (gauge)
Price: $40–$100 (compressor), $12–$20 (gauge)
Experience: Reliable, accurate, essential for tire maintenance.
Key Specs: Fill up to 100 PSI, portable size, digital readouts.
Interesting Features: Digital accuracy and quick inflation.
Description: Fast, reliable way to maintain tire safety on long road trips.
Tips & Considerations: Always check pressures before hitting the road.
How It Affects Your Trip: Improves driving safety; avoids blowouts and uneven wear.
Create Your Own RV Accessories Wish List!
Ready to take your RV experience to the next level? Start building your own wish list, dream board, or vision board with the best RV accessories and rv parts and accessories. Organize your must-have RV camping accessories and keep all your top picks in one place — create your dream board now with Wisher.
Conclusion
With these must-have RV accessories at your fingertips, you’re ready to hit the road, stay safe, and make every RV camping trip a comfortable, memorable adventure. You may save it for future trips and track price drops or coupon offers with Wisher and buy with the best deal for you. Whether you’re browsing Camping World RV aisles or shopping online for the best RV accessories, organizing your dream board will keep your journeys smooth and stress-free. You may also use Wisher's wishlist Chrome extension. Happy travels!
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