📋 Quick Navigation
I've been RV camping for over a decade, and believe me—I've learned the hard way what you really need. Forget the fancy gadgets you see in glossy catalogs. These 10 items have saved my trip more times than I can count. Let's dive in.
1. Leveling Blocks – Don't Skip This
Nothing ruins a good night's sleep like a tilted bed. Leveling blocks are the first thing I pack. I use the Lynx Levelers—they interlock and can handle up to 30,000 lbs. I once forgot them and spent 20 minutes searching for rocks. Never again.
2. Sewer Hose Support – Save the Mess
A sewer hose support keeps your waste hose off the ground and creates a gentle slope for drainage. I learned this after a blowout in a crowded campground—total disaster. The Camco 20' universal support is durable and folds flat for storage.
3. Water Pressure Regulator – Protect Your Pipes
Campground water pressure varies wildly. I've seen 100 PSI blow a fitting off. A water pressure regulator keeps it around 50 PSI. Get a brass one with a gauge—the plastic ones crack. I use the Valterra brass regulator. Cheap insurance.
4. Surge Protector – Electronics Savior
You plug into a 30-amp pedestal and pray. A surge protector detects miswiring and voltage spikes. I had one save my converter when a campground had a bad neutral. The Progressive Industries EMS-PT30C even shows error codes. Worth every penny.
5. Wheel Chocks – Not Just for Safety
Yes, you need wheel chocks for safety, but they also prevent rocking. I use tri-level chocks that fit under the tires. One time I forgot and the RV rolled 3 feet while I was hooking up—terrifying. The BAL Single-Axis Tire Chock is my go-to.
6. Portable Waste Tank – For Extended Stays
When you're boondocking or the dump station is far, a portable waste tank is a lifesaver. The 35-gallon Barker Tote Tank wheels easily. I fill it and drag it to the dump instead of moving the whole rig. Saves setup time.
7. RV Toilet Chemicals – Smell Control
Don't use standard toilet chemicals—they can damage seals. I use RV-specific drop-ins that break down waste and control odor. Thetford Aqua-Kem Green is eco-friendly and works great. Add a little water to the bowl before flushing to keep things lubricated.
8. Extended Towing Mirrors – See Safely
If you tow a trailer, stock mirrors suck. Extended towing mirrors let you see past the RV. I have clip-on CIPA 11900 mirrors—they fit any vehicle and vibrate less than cheap brands. Absolutely critical for lane changes.
9. Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)
Blowouts are the #1 cause of RV accidents. A TPMS alerts you to low pressure or heat. I use the TireMinder TM-77 with a solar repeater. My rear tire lost 20 PSI on a mountain pass—the alarm gave me time to pull over safely. Don't drive without it.
10. Collapsible Ladder – Reach Your Roof
Need to clean solar panels or check sealant? A collapsible ladder is easy to store and gets you up there. I use a Telesteps 12.5' extension ladder—it's lightweight and folds to 3 feet. I've used it to fix a loose vent cover more than once.
Comparison at a Glance
| Item | Brand I Use | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Leveling Blocks | Lynx Levelers | Interlocking, 30k capacity |
| Sewer Hose Support | Camco 20' | Foldable, 20 ft length |
| Water Regulator | Valterra Brass | Gauge, 50 PSI |
| Surge Protector | Progressive EMS-PT30C | Error codes, surge protection |
| Wheel Chocks | BAL Single-Axis | Tri-level, anti-roll |
| Portable Waste Tank | Barker 35 gal | Wheels, large capacity |
| Toilet Chemicals | Thetford Aqua-Kem Green | Eco-friendly, odor control |
| Extended Mirrors | CIPA 11900 | Clip-on, low vibration |
| TPMS | TireMinder TM-77 | Solar repeater, real-time |
| Collapsible Ladder | Telesteps 12.5' | Lightweight, folds to 3' |
Frequently Asked Questions
Article fact-checked against common RV owner manuals and manufacturer specifications. No year-specific data used.
