Talk about camping accessories, and most anyone can rattle off a list of must-haves for a night at the campsite. But what are the best RV accessories that you really cannot do without?
[RELATED: How to Plan a Vacation With Friends]
1. Awning for Shade, Privacy, and Rain Protection
An awning is not optional. This is one of the best RV accessories to add to any type of rig that is missing one. Choose a mildew-resistant fabric in a color that complements your recreational vehicle. If you park your RV anywhere for longer than a day, an awning greatly enhances your enjoyment of the locale. By the way, this is not one of the RV parts where you can skimp. Buy from a dedicated retailer, such as Camping World, which offers custom-made awnings that are made with your rig in mind, especially if you are doing a fair amount of retrofitting. Expect to pay from $100 to $900, depending on size.
2. Rearview Trailer Level
This $15 to $20 gadget is available at automotive and RV parts stores. Take the guesswork out of leveling your rig. Attach it to the front of a trailer within line of sight of the rearview mirror and know without a spotter whether the trailer is level side to side as well as front and back. It is invaluable for the camper with a fifth wheel.
3. Camper Leveler With Wheel Chock
Sure, you could just buy the wheel chocks, but why? For as little as $24 per unit, you can have a chock with built-in leveler. Outlets like eTrailer offer these gadgets, but so do other camping supply and automotive stores. Be sure to keep an eye on the weight cut-off; some go as high as 5,000 pounds, but others may have a lower capacity rating.
4. Disposable Gloves
Rarely mentioned among essential RV accessories are disposable gloves. Remember that you will be handling sewer hoses, sewer hook-ups that previously were connected to other campers’ sewer tanks, and other equally disagreeable matter. Good-quality gloves are for sale at any store that also features a pharmacy.
When you deal with wrenches and stuck valves, gardening gloves give you an extra bit of grip. Avoid the telltale gashes and scratches caused by the sharp edges of antiquated water hook-ups. Buy these gloves at a home improvement store with a gardening section. In a pinch, work gloves do just fine.
6. 50-Foot 30-Amp Extension Cord
Your rig is most likely already equipped with a 25-foot cord, so you are tempted to file the 50-foot extension cord under “optional” RV accessories, right? Wrong! Even though nine times out of 10, you are parked close enough to the campground’s power source, there is that one occasion when you are too far away. Do you really want to re-level your rig? What happens if your spot’s power source is broken, but the neighbor’s spot features two plugs; are you going to get cozy with the other campers? Fifty feet of cord leaves you independent. Buy the cord at Camping World , since you do want to get a dedicated RV accessory.
7. Spare Sewer Hose
What can go wrong with your sewer hose? Let me count the ways! Improper storage, animal damage, abrasive rocks, and inconsiderate campers are just some of the hazards the sewer hose faces. Have an extra one on hand if you notice leaks. Buy this hose at an RV parts store.
8. Smittybilt Recovery Strap
Have you ever managed to get your motorhome stuck in mud by the side of the road? I have, and in order to get towed out quickly, do not wait for a friendly bystander with a tow hitch to show up. The Smittybilt Recovery Strap is rated to 30,000 pounds, so it should do quick work with your RV. It retails for about $40 at automotive stores.
9. 12-Volt Crock Pot
Most meals on the road come from the grill, off the stove, or out of the microwave. If you really want to dish up delicious meals though, look to the RV Supply Warehouse, where you can become the proud owner of a 12-volt crock pot for about $33. It plugs into the cigarette lighter, holds 1.5 quarts, and lets you enjoy a home-cooked meal without actually having to be at the RV all day watching the pot.
10. Child Gates
These gates usually belong across bathroom, kitchen, and stair entries of homes with small children. Even so, they are camping accessories you do not want to be without. Corral your dog while moving around the trailer, fence off your cooler and cooking supplies from a fellow camper’s inquisitive pet, create some privacy space between your RV and the hook-ups, or set up a patio perimeter for a younger child accompanying you on the trip. These gates retail at stores such as Target, Walmart, and others. Opt for the interlocking panels so you can adjust the size of the gating.
