Headed out on your first-ever RV trip?
It is an exciting time, that’s for sure. You are about to take on the road in a brand new way and have an epic adventure. Because you take your trip at your own pace, RVing is a unique way to travel, and customizing your itinerary and even equipping it with new RV essentials is a good way to go.
But if you have never gone on an RV trip before, you are definitely going to scratch your head about what essentials you need to bring for the ride. After all, it is not as simple as packing a suitcase full of clothes and hopping on an airplane. You are basically driving a house on wheels, which means your list of travel accessories is totally different.
Make a list is the first thing on the list!
Depending on your personal situation and camping goals, there are a few things you might need to pack in a camper trailer. This is why it helps to write down what you need before you go. For instance, your essentials list might need to include things like towing accessories, interior accessories like plumbing parts, and any outdoor adventure gear if you are taking on some epic new hikes or rock climbs. If you don’t take this extra step you are likely going to forget something. And here is a list of RV essentials you might need when on the road:
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Bundle kits for the road: Just in case, better safe than sorry. These might include simple tools to help you throughout the trip should you suddenly get a flat tire, but also need bathroom supplies, or products for maintenance. When you buy specific kits, it is going to save you money. So you don’t want to drive your large RV on a trip without the means to protect it in the event something goes wrong. For instance, a leaky roof or you might be in need of electrical appliances. In situations like this, you might need an emergency road kit that does it all.
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Hose support: It is a messy job but someone has to do it! To your surprise, if you are a new RV owner, purchase does not include the essentials like the hose needed to dump back your black tank. It is important to know that there are two hoses you need to buy for your RV trip. One is for drinking water and the other for the sewer. Don’t worry, you won’t confuse the two, both are segregated by looks and color. You can simply identify the sewer hose by the wide expanding hose which is for filing and flushing the tanks. If your RV came with a sewer hose, it is worth buying an extension for it.
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Surge Protector: There are several power supply items you will need for your RV. However, with that, it can be frustrating if issues arise with using electricity as power spikes and dips are not uncommon at campgrounds. To ensure this does not happen you will need an RV surge protector and adapters. These help keep unsteady electricity from putting RVs appliances at risk if a campground has a different connection than you.
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Tank Treatment: For new RV owners, sanitation is one of the intimidating things. Though it is not a big deal if you have learned proper dumping, and flushing techniques and used appropriate chemicals. If you surf the internet you might find that tank chemicals come in a variety of formulations and forms, and most of them from well-recognized brands work as advertised that is breaking down the solids. First-timers can search the internet for different brands to come up with the best of the treatments.
- Roof Sealants: Eventually the leaks are inevitable. And having a roof sealant in hand that works with your RVs roof material, can make a difference between a miserable, expensive delay and a salvageable weekend. If you get in a situation where there is a leak in the roof, you can quickly patch up whatever dripping and finish off your vacation, and get it fully repaired after you get home.
- Jacks and Levelers: Speaking of being level, yes it is that important! Leveling and jacking your tires is essential in some cases, making sure your appliances run smoothly. Plus, your RV can get water damaged, slide-out issues, and refrigerator problems if you are not level. So don’t leave your home without this simple tool and be rest assured you are leveled every time you park.