The RV Essentials We Use After 5 RVs (from Full-Time RVers)

The first time we pulled our RV into a campground, we realized we forgot a sewer hose… definitely not ideal.

It was one of those “I wish someone had told us” moments that every RVer runs into at some point.

Whether you’re just starting out or planning your first big trip, figuring out what you actually need for RV life can be confusing. After owning 5 different RVs, we’ve made our share of mistakes and tested a lot of gear.

In this guide, we’re sharing the RV essentials we truly can’t live without. These are the items that have saved us stress, solved annoying problems, and helped us enjoy life on the road with fewer surprises. If you’re also looking for the apps and memberships we use regularly, we’ve got a separate guide for those here.

Must Have RV Essentials (Start With These)

When you’re just getting started with RV life, it can be hard to know what’s truly essential and what’s just “nice to have.”

Trust us… after forgetting a sewer hose on our very first campground stay and learning the hard way about sketchy power connections, we’ve figured out what gear actually matters.

This section covers the physical RV gear you should get from day one. Whether you’re towing a travel trailer or living full-time in a fifth wheel like us, these items will help you stay safe, functional, and stress-free on the road.

Power & Electrical

• Surge Protector (Power Watchdog)
  We don’t plug in without this. Campground pedestals aren’t always reliable. This little box could save you thousands in fried electronics.

• Power Cords & Adapters (30amp to 50amp or vice versa)
  You’ll eventually end up at a site with the wrong hookup. Have adapters on hand for peace of mind.

Water Setup

• Drinking Water Hose (Heated and Regular)
  Use a dedicated RV water hose, not your garden hose. If you’re traveling in cold temps, a heated one is a must… seriously, we bought one this year when we were in Michigan and are so glad we did.
• Water Pressure Regulator
  Protects your RV’s plumbing from campground water systems that crank out fire-hose levels of pressure.
• Inline Water Filter
  Helps improve taste and filter out nasties from questionable water hookups. A small investment for big peace of mind.

Sewer & Dump Station Gear

• Sewer Hose, Adapter, and Gloves
  Essential. Alan learned the messy way why gloves matter. Get a quality hose with the right connections, especially if you value clean shoes.
• Holding Tank Treatment
  Helps break down waste and keep odors under control. Trust us. Your nose will thank you.
• Portable Waste Tank (a.k.a. the “Poop Caddy”)
  If you’re boondocking or staying at partial hookups for extended periods, this lets you dump without moving your entire RV.

Safety, Tires & Travel Day Prep

• Wheel Chocks and Leveling Blocks
  Keep your rig steady and level. This is important for fridge operation and your own comfort. We personally use the Andersen buckets since they help our jacks not extend as far.

Setup & Navigation Tools

• Basic Tool Kit
  Things will rattle loose. We’ve used our tools for everything from tightening screws to reattaching trim mid-roadtrip.
• RV/Trucker GPS
  If you’re in a larger rig like our 44′ fifth wheel, don’t rely on regular GPS apps. A trucker or RV-specific GPS will route you away from low clearances and scary turns. This is really not necessary for campervans or small trailers, but critical for the big guys.
• Telescoping Ladder
  If your RV didn’t come with a built-in ladder, grab one. You’ll need it for cleaning, roof checks, and installing gear like Starlink. Morgan already had a telescoping ladder from her previous business that we kept as a secondary option.

Regular inspections and roof care are essential to avoid leaks and costly repairs. This RV roof maintenance guide offers a good overview of what to check and how to care for your roof.

Lighting & Emergency

• Flashlights, Headlamps, Lanterns
  You’ll need lighting when setting up after dark or heading out for late-night dog walks.
• Fire Extinguisher
  Always check the one that came with your RV. Many are dinky and may not be enough for your size RV. And in case you didn’t know, they expire… Yep. Make sure it is still good.

Interior Essentials for Daily RV Life

When you’re living in an RV, whether full-time or just for weekend trips, the inside setup makes a huge difference. This is the gear that keeps things clean, organized, functional, and comfortable. After outfitting five RVs, we’ve fine-tuned what’s actually worth packing and what just wastes space.

Here’s what we keep inside to make everyday RV life easier.

Bedding, Towels, and More

• Sheets, Pillows, and Blankets
  Comfort matters, especially when your bed might double as your living space. RV mattresses often have unique sizes, so standard sheets don’t always fit well. Amazon carries RV-specific sheet sets that are tough to find in stores — these are the ones we use and love.
• Quick-Dry Towels
  These take up less space and dry faster after showers or lake days. A small upgrade that makes a big difference.
• Indoor Rugs
  We love muddy mats to catch dirt right at the door. They protect the floors and cut down on constant sweeping.

Kitchen and Cooking Gear

• Gourmetific Cookware with Detachable Handles
  These save cabinet space and work on every surface we use. Stovetop, oven, or grill — they get the job done. We purchased these within the past 6 months and wish we had bought them sooner.
• Drying Rack or Sink Cover
  The metal kind can double as extra counter space when not in use.
• Everyday Cooking Basics
  Cutting boards, serving utensils, baking sheets, spices, foil, baggies, and can openers. Bring what you use regularly at home.
• Plates, Silverware, and Cups
  We carry a mix of reusable and disposable. Sometimes you just want to toss the plate and relax.
• Air Fryer and Toaster Oven Combo
  For full-timers, this appliance does it all. It replaces a traditional oven and lets us bake, roast, and reheat without heating up the whole RV.
• Countertop Dishwasher
  It is not essential for everyone, but our countertop dishwasher is one of our favorite splurges. It saves time, water, and sanity.
• Ice Maker
  Definitely not required by any means but we love ours! We use it almost every day. Perfect for hot climates and saving trips to the store.

Cleaning Supplies

• Handheld Vacuum and Broom
  A strong cordless vacuum handles pet hair, crumbs, and dirt. The broom helps with quick cleanups.
• Swiffer or Compact Mop
  Easy to store and perfect after muddy hikes or dusty boondocking stays.
• Cleaning Products and Trash Bags
  Bring what works for you. Just make sure it is packed safely to avoid travel day messes.
• Washer and Dryer Options
  Some rigs come with stackable or all-in-one units, but we’ve also seen great portable setups. If you’re full-timing, having your own laundry option can be convenient. Personally, we chose to save the space and weight for other things though so we do not have any specific recommendations.

Toiletries and First Aid

• Toilet Paper and Paper Towels
  Despite what you might read, RV-specific toilet paper isn’t essential. What actually matters is water. The more water you use when flushing, the better your black tank performs. Most clogs and issues come from people skimping on water, not from using regular TP. Just plan to dump a little more often and avoid creating the dreaded poop pyramid.
• Basic Medicine and First Aid Kit
  Bandages, pain relief, antihistamines, and bug bite cream. You will be glad you packed it when the nearest store is an hour away. This expert camping first aid checklist helps you double‑check all the essentials.
• Bathroom Basics
  Soap, tissues, hand towels, trash cans, and anything else that keeps your bathroom routine feeling normal.

Everyday Basics

• Chargers and Extension Cords
  Something is always low on battery. We keep backups in a few key spots.
• Storage Bins and Collapsible Buckets
  Space-saving gear is everything in an RV. The wash bucket with a removable plug is one of our most-used items.
• Hangers and Reusable Bags
  Useful for laundry, groceries, or organizing gear.
• Scissors
  Essentials that are easy to forget but absolutely need to be onboard.

Clothing & Personal Items

Not everyone RVs full time like we do, so you probably don’t need to bring your entire closet. Just think about the weather at your destination (and what activities you’ll be doing), then pack accordingly.

RV Necessities That Aren’t Essential… But Almost

There’s a lot of RV gear we would not technically call essential. That said, we use this stuff constantly, and skipping it would make RV life a lot less comfortable and, honestly, more frustrating.

These are the items that make setup easier, outdoor living more enjoyable, and day-to-day life smoother. You can live without them, but once you have them, you probably will not want to.

Outdoor Living & Cooking

• Blackstone Griddle
  We love our 17″ Blackstone griddle and use it more than our indoor stove. It is perfect for breakfast, smashburgers, and easy dinners without heating up the rig.
• Solo Stove
  A smokeless fire pit that actually works. Less smoke, fewer bugs, and way more enjoyable campfire nights.
• Folding Table & Collapsible Outdoor Trash Can
  Extra surface space outside is always useful. The trash can folds flat for travel days and keeps critters out of your site.
• Camping Chairs
  We have tried several over the years. Spend a little more on chairs that are sturdy and comfortable enough to sit in for hours.
  • Camping Chair Rocker (Alan’s pick)
  • Heated Camping Chair (Morgan’s pick for the cold)
    Use MORGANMIDDLETON as your coupon code for 20% off
• Outdoor Rug
  This keeps dirt (or sand like our current site) out of the RV and makes your campsite feel like a living space instead of a parking spot. They come in all different sizes. For us, we like the 8’x16′ mats to cover more space.
• Solar-Powered Bug Zapper
  Quiet, effective, and clutch during mosquito season. We didn’t think mosquitos were bad in Wyoming… and then we saw the pterodactyls they call mosquitos. We bought this handy dandy solar-powered mosquito zapper almost immediately. And it worked so well, several other RVers bought one after they saw ours.
• Pop-Up Canopy or Shade Tent
  We use this for sunny sites, beach days, and boondocking. Shade is a game changer.

Recreation & Relaxation

• Speakers
  Music makes campfires, cookouts, and long stays so much better.
• Fishing Pole & Tackle Box
  Not essential for everyone, but we like having them for spur-of-the-moment lake days.
• Binoculars
  We did not bring any to Wyoming and immediately regretted it… so we bought a pair of Nocs (lifetime warranty). Now we are constantly fighting over them because wildlife is a lot cooler when you can actually see it. We might need to buy another pair.
• Cooler or Backpack Cooler
  Perfect for beach days, hikes, or extra drinks when hosting friends.
• Games
  Rainy days, power outages, or quiet campground nights are all better with a few go-to games onboard.

Site Maintenance & Boondocking Tools

• Battery-Powered Blower
  We use this constantly to clear slides and the roof before travel, clean off rugs, and even help start campfires.
• Weed Eater
  This sounds excessive until you pull into a boondocking site with knee-high grass. We learned that lesson the hard way once and have been thankful many times since.
• Ax or Hatchet
  Useful for firewood and general campsite cleanup, especially when camping off-grid.

Digital Nomad Gear (For Life and Work on the Road)

If you’re working remotely, running a business, or just need a solid internet setup while you travel, having the right tech gear makes all the difference. We’ve tested a lot of setups over the years and have found a few key tools that keep us connected and productive without eating up space or sanity.

Our Work-From-RV Setup

• Monitor
  We use a portable monitor to expand our screen space without taking up much room. It makes editing, researching, or working side-by-side way easier.

• Bluetooth Mouse & Keyboard
  A simple but essential comfort upgrade if you’re working long hours. We use wireless to reduce cable clutter.
• Xebec SoloScreen
  This sleek little monitor setup gives you a dual screen experience, even if you’re working from the dinette or a tiny corner of the fifth wheel. And the best part? It can be used horizontally OR vertically.

• Charging Cords & Surge-Protected Power Strip
  Between phones, cameras, and laptops, we always have something charging. A surge-protected strip gives us peace of mind when plugged into campground power.

Staying Connected: Internet Options That Actually Work

We’ve used both Starlink and T-Mobile Home Internet, depending on where we’re camping and what kind of speeds we need.

• Starlink for RVers
  Fast, reliable internet even in remote locations. It is especially useful if you boondock often… just make sure you plan for a power source. We have the Starlink Standard but know a lot of RVers with the Mini who are not working remotely. We also have the pole to mount ours on our ladder when needed.
• T-Mobile Home Internet
  A great lower-cost option that works surprisingly well in many areas. It’s part of our internet backup plan and works best when you’re in range of strong towers.

Pet Essentials for RV Life

Traveling with a dog can be one of the best parts of RV life, but it also takes a little planning. Our 95-pound pup, Coco, is part of the crew, so we’ve got a solid system in place to keep her safe, happy, and comfortable whether we’re boondocking in the desert or parked at a full-hookup campground.

Here’s the gear we rely on for stress-free RV travel with a (large) dog.

Feeding & Water

• Food and Water Bowls
  We use collapsible bowls for travel days in the truck and a sturdier raised setup at the campsite.
• Filtered Water Supply
  Depending on your location, water quality can vary. We either use filtered water or bring along extra water bottles to make sure Coco stays hydrated.
• Treats & Toys
  Her treats and favorite toys come with us everywhere. They’re great for keeping her calm on long stays and entertained during rainy days.

Safety & Comfort

• Dog Bed
  Even in our spacious fifth wheel, having a dedicated spot for Coco to rest helps her feel at home… but let’s be honest, she also has the sofa, the back bed, and our bed to lounge on.
• Dog Jacket
  Early morning walks or winter stays can get chilly. Her jacket helps keep her warm and dry when the weather turns.
• Temperature and Humidity Monitor
  This is one of our favorite safety tools for Coco. There are plenty of subscription services out there like Waggle, Govee, and Marcell BUT do some research before you purchase. It gives us real-time updates on interior temps when we’re away from the RV. If the AC fails or power cuts out (3 day battery backup!), we get alerts fast and that gives us real peace of mind.

We chose the Necto Cellular Temperature & Humidity Monitor because it does not require a monthly subscription, power, OR WiFi. If your power goes out, chances are good so does your WiFi.

Want the Full RV Essentials Checklist? Download It Free

This post covers a lot, and it can be tough to remember every little thing when you’re staring at a giant packing list.

We’ve turned all of our must-have gear into a printable checklist you can take shopping or use to get your RV fully stocked. It includes every item we’ve mentioned here, plus a few extras we’ve learned to keep around after owning five RVs and years of travel experience.

Want a copy? Grab our free RV Essentials Checklist below.

It’s totally free and designed to help you avoid those “I forgot the sewer hose” moments before your first trip.

What’s Next? Plan Your First RV Trip

Now that your RV is stocked with the essentials, it’s time to put them to work. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or mapping out your first longer adventure, that first trip is where the learning really begins.

Start here with our RV trip planning guide. It walks you through picking your first destination, making reservations, and getting ready to roll without second-guessing everything.

And before you pull into your first site, take a minute to read our campground etiquette tips and our Arrival Setup Checklist. Knowing what to do when you get there can make that first campsite setup way less stressful.

New to RV Life? Here’s What to Read Next

If you’re just starting your RV journey, we’ve got more resources to help you hit the road with confidence:

• 👉 RV Essentials for Beginners – Gear you actually need (and what you can skip)
• 👉 How to Plan Your First RV Trip – A step-by-step trip planning guide
• 👉 Helpful RV Apps – Navigation, campgrounds, weather, and more
• 👉 Unwritten Rules of RV Etiquette – Don’t be that neighbor
• 👉 RV Travel Is the Best Way to Explore the US – In case you need a reminder of how awesome this life is

Whether you’re setting up for the first time or the fiftieth, we’re glad you’re here—and we’re always just a blog post away.