When embarking on your RV journey as a newcomer, it’s easy to overlook some crucial gear that can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. We give you a list of essential RV items that often go unmentioned but can significantly enhance your RVing experience. For more help and advice, log into the E3 Camping platform and talk with your fellow members and RVers!
Essential Gear New
RVers Often Overlook
A Comprehensive Guide
Here’s a comprehensive guide to these often overlooked essentials:
Water System:
- Water Pressure Regulator: Invest in a brass, adjustable water pressure regulator with a gauge to maintain consistent and safe water pressure in your RV. Campground water pressures can vary widely, and a regulator prevents potential damage to your plumbing system.
- Fresh Water Hose: While some may make do with the hose from their welcome bucket, consider upgrading to a more reliable, tangle-resistant hose. Quick hose connectors can also be handy additions.
- Fresh Water Filter: Improve water taste and remove contaminants by adding an inline fresh water filter to your setup. Opt for one with a flexible hose protector to reduce stress on hose connection points.
Black Water Treatment:
- Black Water Treatment: Even if your welcome bucket included some, remember to stock up on black water treatment packets. Regular use is necessary to control odors in your holding tank.
Electrical System:
- Electric Surge Protector: Don’t underestimate the importance of a surge protector. It safeguards your RV’s electrical system from voltage fluctuations, potentially saving you thousands in repair costs.
- Portable Fan/Heater: During shoulder seasons, a portable fan or heater can help you conserve electricity or propane by reducing reliance on your RV’s air conditioner or furnace.
- Extension Cord: Carry an extension cord for appliances like fans and portable heaters. Be cautious not to link multiple extensions together, and periodically check for overheating.
- Small Fridge Fan: If your RV refrigerator isn’t self-defrosting, a small fridge fan can extend the time between defrosting sessions.
Necessities for Safety and Comfort:
- Wheel Chocks: Ensure your RV stays put by using wheel chocks to prevent movement when parked.
- Leveling Blocks: Invest in leveling blocks for added convenience in achieving a level RV setup, a common requirement in RVing.
- Storage Boxes/Containers: Organize your RV basement storage with plastic, lidded containers. They’re lightweight, stackable, and excellent for storing RV necessities and hobby gear.
- Kitchen, Bath, and Bedroom Items: Consider transferring items from your home to your RV gradually, investing in separate sets for your RV’s kitchen, bath, and bedroom for convenience.
- Extra Fire Extinguishers: Safety first—place fire extinguishers in the RV bedroom, kitchen, and outside in the basement storage area.
- RV Toilet Paper: Ensure you have an ample supply of RV-friendly toilet paper.
Nice-to-Have Items:
- Portable Grill: Having your portable grill allows you to cook without waiting for campground grills to become available.
- Outdoor RV Mat: Even a small grass-like mat at your entry steps can keep your RV interior cleaner. A larger outdoor mat offers even more convenience.
- Camping Chairs or Recliners: Make your outdoor experience more comfortable with camping chairs or recliners for those lovely days outside.
- Entrance Rug and Rugs for Living Spaces: Entrance rugs capture dirt, while indoor rugs provide warmth and character to your RV.
- Mattress Topper: Improve the comfort of factory RV mattresses with a quality mattress topper.
As you gain experience, you may discover additional items that enhance your RV lifestyle. The key is to be prepared and gradually build up the gear that suits your needs, ensuring your RV adventures are enjoyable and worry-free. Happy RVing!
Join the E3 Camping Membership today and become a part of a vibrant community that shares your passion for RV adventure. Together, we can make your dreams of RVing and camping a reality, while embracing the spirit of empowerment.