RV Essentials for Your First Trip
When you first purchase your camper, it can be so exciting that you want to buy everything you’ve seen on YouTube videos, advertisements, and fellow camper’s suggestions. But you should take a step back and think about your specific camper, what kind of trips you want to take, where you want to go, and what kinds of activities interest you.
However, there are some essentials most of us need to hit the road. Here’s my list of must-haves prior to your first trip out;
Power Surge Protector – I think this is the most important item you can buy. This item plugs in to the power box at your campsite and shows if the connection is safe for your RV. It can protect your RV from damaging power surges or tell you if the power box is working. I bought the Watch Dog brand and have been pleased with the results. Amazon links 30 amp - https://amzn.to/4h0O6lg 50 amp - https://amzn.to/3NlWIFg
Water Pressure Regulator – Equally important, hooking up to campground water with pressure too high can cause damage to your water lines. My NuCamp came with a small Camco water pressure regulator and I’ve not had any issues. The item I linked to is the one that came with my RV. Amazon link https://amzn.to/3BDPsSC
Water Hose for Drinkable Water - When I first started camping, I ordered the typical white RV hose. It was stiff and well, a pain to attach. I have since ordered a soft, expandable hose which I love. I decided to buy the 50-foot one because I’ve heard stories of not being able to reach the water at some campgrounds. It cost a few dollars more but I knew I would be traveling full time in a couple of years and might need it. Make sure your hose is rated for drinking water due to chemicals in regular water hoses. Amazon link https://amzn.to/3Y4al15
Quick Connects – I am all for avoiding frustration! Twisting the hose on and off when setting up camp was not one of my favorite tasks. For a few dollars, I ordered a set of Quick Connects and now they just snap on and off. Amazon link https://amzn.to/3NlMepJ
Sewer Hose – I strongly recommend the Camco brand. I’ve seen others break and cause what we campers call a “poopsy” at the dump station. Trust me. You don’t want to experience that at the sake of saving a couple of bucks! They sell a kit that comes with everything you need. I purchased the 20 feet option just to be safe (not the 10). Extensions are available if you decide you need more than 20 feet. Amazon link https://amzn.to/3Y2uGno
Leveling Blocks – A must-have. There are so many to choose from. I decided to go with the Camco blocks. I also purchased the Anderson Leveling blocks but have not used them yet (Example of buying too much before you know what you need.) Amazon link https://amzn.to/3zZljwL I also purchased the Camco pads for underneath my stabilizers. Amazon link https://amzn.to/4eXmM5s
Wheel Chocks - Hopefully, you already have these to secure your camper. I recommend the heavier black rubber ones. Amazon link https://amzn.to/3Ym2ihm
Mattress Pad/Mattress – I would personally recommend spending the night in your camper before you leave home just to see how you sleep. That way, you can get up and get in your bed if you are uncomfortable! I know campers who have purchased a mattress pad and can now get a good night’s sleep. My bed is made on top of cushions because my RV is small. I have a three-inch foam pad on top of the cushions and now, I sleep like a baby that’s had a busy day! Amazon link https://amzn.to/3BIxG0E
Barbecue Grill – I think this is an important item to have when you start. I don’t do a lot of cooking inside my RV right now because I’m doing a lot of long weekend trips. That will have to change when I’m full-time. I just have the little “cheap one” right now, which does the job. The Blackstone is the rave these days but I have always been partial to the Coleman collapsible grill. I wasn’t sure what I wanted so decided to wait. I don’t have enough experience with grills to recommend a particular one. If you have a favorite, please leave me a comment so I can give it a try.
I will only recommend products I use or products that are tried and true by my fellow campers. We are here to help each other!
Of course, there are other items you will need but these are the essentials to get started. Have fun shopping!
Being a solo woman traveler, I decided to add a couple of items that are nice to have in your vehicle whether you pull a camper or not. I have a tire patch kit and an air pump that plugs into my truck adapter.
After you get some experience under your belt, you can decide what kind of extras you really want and need. I was given that advice when I started but didn’t listen. I should have!
Hopefully, shortly, I can offer the option to buy the items listed above that I recommended. Stay tuned for updates!!
Happy camping!
The links above are Amazon affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.