88 Essential RV Supplies for Every Beginner

After years of RVing and researching the most essential RV products we have come up with the best 88 RV Supplies that every beginner should have.

Must Have RV Supplies

This list is not optional, you must have these supplies in your RV for every trip. It will save you money and stress in the long run so make sure you have these on board.

  1. Surge Protector

Surge protectors are essential for your RV. They protect your RV against voltage fluctuations, power surges and faulty wiring. The electrical components are probably one of the most complex parts of your RV, so it’s expensive to repair.

It’s vital to protect your electrical system in your RV with a surge protector, we’ve seen campsites faulty wiring and lightning strikes blow the whole RVs system. This little piece of kit will protect you from that, trust me it’s worth it.

2. Sewer kit

You’re going to need a sewer hose kit for your RV, unless you want to get your hands dirty – no recommended. The sewer hoses remove the waste from your grey and black tanks.

This is something that you don’t want to skimp on either, I bought a cheap hose once and thought I was winning, until the cap broke and flew off mid disposal! A funny story now but I wasn’t laughing at the time.

3. Drinking water hose

You need water to survive, and so drinking water is crucial when it comes to RVing. The drinking water hose tends to be overlooked but in my opinion it’s an absolute necessity. An RV water hose will ensure that you can drink safely.

4. Leveling blocks

There’s nothing worse than finding a great site to set up and then realize you’re on a slant, it will affect everything you do from sleeping to showering. Leveling blocks are there to straighten you out.

It will take a couple of minutes to level out your RV with a set of leveling blocks, so you can have a more comfortable stay.

5. Wheel chocks

The last thing you want to see is your RV rolling down a hill!

To secure your RV in place you’ll need a good set of wheel chocks. They are pretty inexpensive but are needed to keep your rig in place.

6 . Extra motor oil and transmission fluid

Always keep a bottle of motor oil and transmission fluid in your RV. You always want to keep checking the oil and transmission fluid levels and keep them topped up to prevent damage to your engine.

  1. Portable Jump starter kit

Like with your car, its always a good idea to have battery jumper cables or a portable jump starter. Even more so in an RV as the battery can get run down quickly.

Portable jump starter kits are amazing! I’ve seen these little things jump start Class A motorhomes.

Always keep it charged up in your RV for when you might need it.

  1. Emergency road kit

Every vehicle should have an emergency road kit on board.

Breakdowns are unfortunately part of RV life, and you’ll need to have the emergency kit to be safe. Most shelf bought roadside emergency kits include most of what you will need. You can always add more if you want.

Top RV Kitchen Supplies

Most RVs kitchens are tiny, if you’re lucky enough to have one at all!

This doesn’t mean that you can’t cook up a storm though, with these kitchen essentials you’ll be rivaling Gordon Ramsey in no time 🙂

Here are our top RV kitchen supplies to help you make the best of your tiny kitchen.

1. Dish drying mat

A rubber dish drying mat is really useful, it saves space and time when drying your pots. It lets air circulate underneath and will even hold the dishes in place if you forget to put them back. You can either roll it up and store it away or leave it out when you’re not using it, so much better than a big wire sink drainer.

2. Collapsible trash can

A collapsible trash can is a great space saver, you can fold it up when not in use. You can get ones that zip up to keep those pesky animals from going through the garbage at night, and its sturdy enough to withstand hits from a raccoon while open.

You don’t have to use it as a trash can it can have a multitude of uses like laundry, pool toys, recycling whatever you want.

3. Instant Pot

We can’t have an article about RV kitchen supplies and not talk about the Instant Pot. This is an essential for RV owners (and homeowners in general).

Not to be confused with a crock pot, this little gem cooks fresh healthy meals in minutes. In fact it cooks in 7 different ways, it functions as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, saute pan, food warmer, and yogurt maker. It makes life so much easier, it reduces washing up and makes cooking easier. You just need to throw in the ingredients, set the timer and wait for the beep.

4. Toaster oven

If your RV doesn’t have an oven, then a toaster oven is a must. I have one and use it for roasting and baking, even reheating food. The toaster oven just gives you that little bit more versatility.

If you do get a toaster oven then you can get a super cute small bakeware set for it.

The toaster oven will sit on the counter (on top of a non slip mat), so it won’t take up valuable cabinet space.

5. Stackable containers

Easily one of the best ways to save space in your RV is to get items that are stackable. I love my stackable containers, they save a ton of space, which is always a bonus.

6. Stackable Dinnerware Set

Whilst we’re talking about stackables, a stackable dinnerware set is a must! It’s best to get plastic so there’s no need to worry about breakages.

Get a full dinnerware set, so you won’t need to worry about any more serveware, it will also all fit into the smallest cabinet when all stacked.

7. Stackable Mixing Bowls

And for the trilogy of stackables we have these stackable mixing bowls 🙂 They can also be used as fruit bowls or snack bowls when you reach your destination. They have a multitude of uses and you’ll wonder what you ever did without them.

Again get plastic ones so no need to worry about them breaking.

8. Non-Stick Cookware Set

So you have your cooking appliances and serveware now for the pans.

You’re going to want to have a set of pans in your RV so you don’t have to remember them from home every time you go out.

A non-stick cookware set is perfect for your RV, it’s easy to clean and will be able to survive the rough and tumble of RV life.

9. Knife Set

You’re also going to want knives to prep all your food. You might as well get the set, with different sizes.

10. Cast Iron Skillet

I know we’ve got a non stick cookware set of pans already in this list,  but if you’re going to be cooking outdoors a cast iron skillet is a must.

A good cast iron skillet will last a lifetime.

They cook more evenly on a campfire or over the grill, it might be just me but I think things taste better when they’ve been cooked with one of these.

11. Berkey Water Filter

This Berkey water filter is amazing!

When you’re moving around so much, you never know if the drinking water is safe, this will filter and purify your water. It removes more than 99.999 percent of viruses and bacteria, it also removes (dramatically reduces) protozoa, trihalomethanes, inorganic minerals, heavy metals, pharmaceutical drugs, pesticides, VOCs, petroleum products, perfluorinated chemicals, rust, silt, sediment, and even radiologicals.

The best thing is that it doesn’t need any electricity or plumbing, it all works through gravity.

It comes in a range of sizes and it comes apart easily to clean.

Best RV Bathroom Supplies

If you thought RV kitchens were small then the bathrooms are even smaller! Here are the top picks to make the most of your RV bathroom.

1.RV Holding Tank Treatment    

If you don’t get a holding tank treatment, you’re going to start regretting it very quickly!

The treatment is needed to mask odors, prevent clogs and clean the system. You want to prevent all of these before they happen and you have to manually intervene. Need I say more?

2. Toothbrush Holder

Get a suction toothbrush holder they are great for keeping things off the counter and secure. They will make your RV bathroom look tidy and organized.

They will also keep your toothbrush in place throughout your journey.

3. Wall Soap Dispenser

Another trick we’ve picked up along the way is getting a wall soap dispenser. These are great, they save you from remembering to bring soap, shampoo and conditioner and the inevitable trip to the store when you realize you’ve forgotten them again.

Get 2 or 3 and you can put all your shower necessities in them – you’ll be glad you did.

4. Magnetic Shampoo Wrapper

If you don’t like the look of the wall dispenser or the thought or refilling them, I’d recommend the magnetic shampoo wrapper.

These will wrap around you shampoo, conditioner, shower gel bottle and attach magnetically to the magnet on the wall.

These are another great option, and will stop the bottles banging around on the shower floor.

5. Shower Caddy

These shower caddy‘s are great, I have them all over the RV. They work especially well in the bathroom, you can securely store your hairbrush, make up, skin treatments etc. it keeps clutter off the floor and out of the precious cabinet space.

They only cost a few dollars but will make your RV look a million bucks 🙂

6. Moisture Meter

There are so many horror stories about damp ruining your RV that I’ve invested in a moisture meter.

I use this regularly around the RV to check there are no leaks or moisture getting in, especially in the bathroom.

Keep the fan on or windows open as much as you can in the bathroom guys!

Anyway, a pinless moisture meter is great for finding damp patches and leaks. It also give you great peace of mind.

7. Small Dehumidifier

As you might tell from the moisture meter, I have a bit of a panic when moisture’s concerned. So, I got a small dehumidifier for the bathroom.

The last thing I want is mold in the RV, so this and the moisture meter help me sleep better at night.

Prevention is better than the cure!

8. RV Quick Dissolving Toilet Paper

I’m not making this up! You are going to need special toilet paper, this is quick dissolving so it will prevent clogs in your holding tank. Which, as you can imagine, is not a pleasant ordeal.

There is a theme starting in the bathroom supplies, you want to get products that prevent you from having to get your hands dirty (quite literally in some cases).

9. Towel Holder

A towel holder is a no brainer, if you haven’t got one it’s worth it.

It will mount directly onto the wall and you can neatly hang your towels there. If you make sure it always has fresh clean towels on, then that’s one less thing to remember for your trip.

10. Air Purifying Bags

Another way to prevent moisture are these little air purifying bags. I know, I’m obsessed with damp.

They’ll also soak up the nasty bathroom smells that can accumulate in small living quarters. You can put them in each room and they’ll immediately freshen up your RV.

Best RV Bedroom Accessories

You’re probably going to be spending the majority of your time in your RV bedroom. These essentials will make it as comfortable as possible.

1.RV Mattress    

This is probably the most important thing you’re going to have in your RV bedroom. This is one thing that you don’t want to skimp on, if you buy a cheap mattress it’s going to end up costing more when you have to buy a better one because you just can’t sleep on it. Trust me I’ve been there.

I’ve tried a few different mattresses in my RV, some were okay for occasional sleeping but you wouldn’t be able to handle a week on a cheap RV mattress. A good RV mattress is well worth it.

2. Skinny Hangers

These are a great space saving solution for your closet, as you know every bit of space counts in your RV.

Get the velvet skinny hangers are great, the material helps keep your clothes on the hanger so you don’t have a crumpled pile when you get to your destination.

3. Command Hooks

You’ll want these nifty little hooks everywhere! They are great for jackets, bags and wall organizers.

They make great use of the space available. The heavy duty ones work the best, as I change around the items that hang on them often I want to make sure that they can take the weight, and I haven’t had a problem yet with them.

4. Shoe Hangers

Another RV bedroom space saving tip is to get these shoe hangers for your closet. They save so much space and it’s great to have a place for your shoes so they’re not strewn all over the place.

If you don’t have that many shoes you can put towels or folded clothes in the spaces too.

5. Space Saver Bags

These space saver bags are great for storing bedding, and winter coats. You place your items in the bag and vacuum all the air out, they shrink right down to a fraction of their size. When you want to use the item you just open the bag and your bedding will be as fresh as when you put it in.

I use these for extra pillows and blankets, and store them under the bed. They are a great space saver for anything bulky.

6. Heater

You’re going to need a little heater in your RV, it will make the colder nights more bearable. It can also be moved around the rooms with you, keeping you nice and toasty.

It will also help you save on propane costs.

Make sure that you’re up to date with your RV fire safety if using an alternative heater and always have a fire extinguisher on board.

7. Fan

If you’re anything like me then hot nights are the worst! You have the heater for the colder weather, but if you want to get any sleep in hotter weather you’re going to need a fan.

This little fan is as much a necessity as the heater, you can move this round with you too keeping you nice and cool.

Best RV Essential Supplies

Make sure that you alway have these essentials in your RV, you will never know when you might need them. But you will need them at some point.

1.Flashlight

I always have my Olight Baton Pro Flashlight in my pocket, I don’t know what I ever did without it. This is a great little torch, perfect to keep in your pocket.

I also have a head torch for a hands free light if I ever need it. Also an LED lantern comes in handy for when you want to save on propane.

2. Pocket Knife    

If you’re RVing or camping then a pocket knife is essential. If you carry it around in your pocket, I guarantee it’ll come in useful at least once a day.

I use mine for everything, from opening packages, slicing food at picnics, and opening the odd beer 😉

Like the flashlight you’ll wonder how you ever coped without it.

You can’t go wrong with a Spyderco pocket knife, they are expertly made and it will last you a lifetime.

TOP TIP – Be aware of the laws in each state about carrying a blade, in most states a blade under 3 inches is legal. Just make sure you check first.

3. Tire Pressure Gauge

I’m obsessed with my RVs tire pressure, I think sometimes I stare at the tires that I convince myself they are flat. I’m constantly checking the pressure. You probably don’t need to check as often as me, but you should always check the tire pressure before a trip.

A tire pressure gauge is a cheap bit of kit that could end up saving you hundreds of dollars.

4. Electrical and Duct Tape

You’ll be surprised how much you’ll use electrical and duct tape in your RV. They can be used for so many quick repairs.

There should always be duct tape in an RV!

5. Extension cords

It’s all too common that you park up in a campsite and the power connection is more than 25 feet away (the length of a standard RV cord). An RV extension cord will sort you out.

It’s better than running your generator for power when there is a connection available.

6. Electrical Adaptors

You’re going to need an electrical adapter to change the amp, if you turn up at a campsite and the power is 50 amp but your RV appliances are 30 amp, an adapter will stop all your fuses from blowing.

They are pretty cheap and are well worth it in the long run, the last thing you want is to be changing fuses for the rest of your stay.

7. Shovel

Having a shovel in your RV is vital, you’re guaranteed to get stuck at some point. There are so many scenarios where you might need a shovel, mud, sand and loose dirt.

You’ll be glad you have one in your RV when this situation arises.

You’re best getting a foldable shovel so it doesn’t take up much room, and will work like a charm to get you unstuck’ .

8. Fire Extinguisher

This is a no brainer, hopefully you’ll never have to use it. But it’s important to have a fire extinguisher just in case.

9. Zip lock bag for paperwork

I keep all my important paperwork in a waterproof zip lock bag. It has my financing, insurance, warranties and other important documents in. It will keep them dry and safe all in one place.

10. Adjustable Water Pressure Regulator

An adjustable water pressure regulator helps to protect your RV plumbing and hoses from damage caused by high-pressure water. This little device is worth its weight in gold, the water pressure at campsites can be really high, so you just set the regulator to the desired pressure and you don’t have to worry about burst pipes.

Best Outdoor accessories

The best part of camping is being in the great outdoors. Make the most of being outside with these accessories.

1. Walkie Talkies     

Remote camping in your RV is amazing. Just you and nature.

Unfortunately, that probably means no cell phone signal too, which can be a good thing, but sometimes safety means communication is needed.

A decent two way walkie talkie is a great thing to have to keep in touch. With a walkie talkie, you can keep in touch when you’re out of ear shot or sight of each other. You can even keep in touch between two vehicles. They’re also pretty cool, who doesn’t love a walkie talkie?

2. Outdoor Mat

An outdoor mat can instantly double your living area. It creates an instant outdoor living area that is free of dirt.

It also stops dirt being tracked into your RV, and therefore cuts down your cleaning time. Win Win.

3. Camping Chairs

No camping trip is complete without camping chairs. You want to make sure that everyone has a camping chair to relax in at the end of the day.

If you want to lounge on your outdoor rug outside of your RV then a camping chair is a must.

4. Camping Tables

If you really want to make the most out of your outdoor space then you’ll need camping tables. Folding tables are great and will have a multitude of uses in and out of your RV. I have a couple of side folding tables, I use them all over the RV and take them outside on an evening. They are great for food prep, drinks and snacks.

5. Portable Fire Pit

There’s nothing better than getting back to the RV after a long days hiking and sitting out next to the campfire.

A campfire is the unofficial symbol of camping so it would be amiss if I didn’t mention it.

6. Hammock

What’s better than having an afternoon nap in a hammock?

You won’t regret taking a hammock on your trip, it justs add that little bit extra 🙂

7. Awning

If you want to go all out and use as much outdoor space as possible then an awning is the way to go.

RV awnings not only increase your floor plan they will provide shade and help moderate the temperature inside your RV. Not to mention the protection from rain, sun and wind.

8. Solar Powered Fairy Lights

Solar powered fairy lights add such a magical atmosphere to your RV. They are also pretty useful when you’re boondocking or on a campsite with no lighting.

9. Frisbee

A frisbee is cheap and fun. Everyone will play with the frisbee at least once during the trip, it’s a memory maker.

10. Fishing gear, including rods, tackle, license, etc.

Fishing gear is a must if that’s what you’re into. You’ll be kicking yourself when you get set up next to the picturesque lake and you’ve forgotten your gear. Just keep it packed in your RV.

11. Outdoor Games

There is so much fun to be had outside, whether it’s baseball, football, cornhole or even croquet. If you have any outdoor games, bring them along, everyone will thank you for it.

Also don’t forget your card or board games for those rainy nights, some of the best nights are spent playing board games when the rain is hammering down on the RV.

If you’re into sports then don’t forget to take your sports equipment.

12. Binoculars

Binoculars are a great way to get more in touch with nature. If you like bird watching or hunting then binoculars are a must.

Best RV Internet and entertainment

One of the biggest challenges for RVers (especially full-timers) is getting online. You’ll also want entertainment inside of your RV for those rainy days. Here are the best picks for internet and entertainment inside of your RV.

1. WiFi Ranger

One of the worst things about being in an RV is the lack of internet connection, sometimes this can be great but life is pretty boring without the internet. A WiFi Ranger can pick up wifi from up to two miles away. Some rangers let you tether different wifi signals together to create a single faster connection.

If you need the internet to work or even for Netfix then a WiFi ranger is great.

2. Mobile signal booster  

It’s great to get away from it all, but sometimes a cell signal is vital. A signal booster, will help you get signal almost anywhere.

This is great if you need to be contactable, or you need to play those mobile games.

3. TV

Sometimes there’s nothing better than watching the TV after a long day exploring or driving. You’ll quickly regret not putting a TV in your RV.

4. Satellite Radio

This is for when you’re driving. Let’s face it you’re going to be spending a lot of time driving so you need a good radio. Satellite radio systems can vary from expensive for a mega system that hooks up to everything or fairly cheap radio for your cab.

5. Portable satellite dish and receiver

A portable satellite dish for your RV is needed for you to watch the TV. They will only work when your RV is parked so they can pick up signal, this also stops you from watching the TV whilst you’re driving, which isn’t recommended.

Most dishes will receive HD video so you don’t have to compromise on quality.

Best RV Climate Control

It’s tough to get the climate right inside your RV, you’ll need the following items to prevent you from being uncomfortable in your motorhome.

1. Thermostat

Most RVs have analog thermostats, which are inaccurate at best. If you want ultimate climate control then a digital smart thermostat is the best bet.

A new digital thermostat won’t set you back too much, you can pick one up for $50.

2. AC

Camping in the summer is awesome, apart from the heat in the RV. You’ll need an efficient and reliable RV AC unit, or the heat can be unbearable.

3. Heater

Don’t forget that you can be RVing year round, an you’ll need AC in the summer, but you’ll need a heater in the winter months. You’re definitely going to need a heater during the cold nights.

Best RV Boondocking accessories

Boondocking is a great way to get away from it all, but you’re going to have to be prepared if you don’t want to end up in trouble. You’ll need these RV supplies for a successful trip.

1. Batteries    

If you’re serious about boondocking then you’re going to want more battery power. The more battery capacity you have the more power you can use before recharging.

Everything that’s a 12 volt appliance in your RV draws power from your battery so if you can get higher capacity batteries then you can go for longer 🙂

2. Solar panels

Depending on how long you are free camping for your batteries may eventually die. You can charge your batteries with solar panels.

Solar panels are environmentally friendly. You can easily set them up on your roof or get portable ones.

Your solar power requirements will depend on how much you use. You can always start off with a small 150 watt panel and scale up from there if needed.

The solar panels will need a battery bank to store all this power, otherwise it would be pretty useless.

3. Composting Toilet

If you’re totally committed to the boondocking life then a composting toilet is a must. They don’t use any water, are environmentally friendly and best of all you won’t have a black tank to deal with.

They will take some getting used to, but you’ll be able to extend your free camping trip a lot longer when you’re not flushing your water down the pan!

4. LED Bulbs

LED bulbs use 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, this is a simple hack to save a load of power in your RV. LED lights also last up to 50 times longer so it really is a win win.

You can even get solar powered LEDs for outside, this is great for when your in the wild.

5. Water-saving showerhead and faucet aerator

As well as conserving power you need to conserve water. If your boondocking you won’t have access to water hookups and so you need to watch your water usage. Water saving showerheads and faucet aerators are a great way to conserve water, without even trying. With these aerators you can save upto 50% more water, effectively doubling your stay.

6. UV Water Purifying Bottle

A UV Water Purifying Bottle will make any clear water source into clean drinking water. If you go through all your water, this could be life saving!

Best RV Space Saving Accessories

Space is a luxury in an RV, these are some cheap and useful ways to save a bit of space inside your RV.

1. Wall Mounted Magnetic Strips

Magnetic strips are awesome, they save so much cabinet space, I store all my knives and scissors on them. They only take a few seconds to install so there’s no excuse.

2. Foldable Tea Kettle

Anything collapsible will save you space, this tea kettle is amazing, I came across it when researching for this article but I’m 100% ordering one. You can also get collapsible pots, bowls and colanders. I’m sure there are more items out there to be discovered.

3. Over the Door Trash Can

I hate having a trash can taking up florr space in my RV, so an over door trash can is my answer. You can put this on a cabinet door and have an instant trash can under your sink.

4. Peg Board

Peg boards are not only functional but they also look really cool. You can store loads of things on them like pots and pans.

5. Storage Headboard

Why not get a bit creative and sew pockets into your headboard, this creates another unique storage space for your bedtime reading.

6. Use Towel Rods to Hold Pot Lids

Pot lids are so annoying, they take up so much space, especially if you want to stack your pots. You can use a towel rod on the inside of your cabinets to hold them.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, 88 essential RV supplies. Some are more important than others, but they will all be useful in their own way.

If you can think of any more, let us know and we’ll add them to the list 🙂

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