It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of traveling in a Travel Trailer, and most often, people tend to forget something for their RV or to make sure that the trip goes as planned. The last thing anyone wants is to experience RV trouble while you’re on the road. Whether you’re a first-time RVer or a seasoned pro, we’ve compiled some of the top 15 must-have accessories you need for your travel trailer.

What to Pack?

Before we discuss some accessories, packing your things is just as important as having the right accessories. You’ll want to make sure you have all the essentials for cooking, sleeping, relaxing, and staying entertained while on your trip.

Here are some items to consider packing:

• Cooking utensils
• Pots and pans
• Dishes and silverware
• Coffee maker or kettle
• Can opener
• Food storage containers
• First-aid kit and medications
• Flashlights or lanterns
• Batteries
• Toiletries and personal items
• Bed linens and pillows
• Clothes and hangers
• Towels
• Games and toys
• Books and magazines
• Camping chairs and table

Because you have limited space, make sure that you only pack the items that you need and will use during your trip. Once you have everything sorted out and packed, you can move on to choosing the best accessories for your travel trailer.

15 Must-Have Accessories for Your Travel Trailer

We’ve all been there. You’re all packed and ready to go on your RV trip when you realize you’ve forgotten something important, or worse, an essential item breaks while you’re on the road. To help prevent any disasters, we’ve compiled a list of 15 must-have accessories to help you ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

1) Water Pressure Regulator

Campsites often have different water pressure than your home, and most RV owners will tell you that one of the most important things to pack is a water pressure regulator. This little gadget attaches to your water hose and regulates the amount of water pressure going into your travel trailer, which helps protect your pipes from bursting.

While high water pressure is sometimes a good thing, sometimes, it can cause problems

like leaks in your faucets and showerhead, or even worse, cause expensive damages. So, to avoid any costly repairs, make sure you pack a water pressure regulator along with you in your travel trailer.

You can find a water pressure regulator at most hardware stores or RV supply stores, and they’re relatively inexpensive, so there’s no excuse not to have one.

2) High-Quality Surge Protector

When traveling with an RV, one of the most important things to have is a good quality Surge Protector. This device will protect your electronics from damage caused by power fluctuations, surges, or brownouts.

It protects your electrical system from any problems that may have stemmed from a power outlet. For instance, if you’re plugged into an outlet that doesn’t have the proper amperage, a surge protector will trip and prevent any damage to your electrical system.

Additionally, if you have any sensitive electronics, like a computer or TV, it’s always a good idea to plug them into a surge protector. That way, if there is a power surge, your devices will be protected from any damage.

Most RV parks have electrical hookups for you to plug into, but the quality of the power can vary, and this is where a surge protector comes in handy. You can find a surge protector at most hardware stores or RV supply stores. Make sure to get one that has enough outlets for all of your devices and appliances.

3) Quiet Generator

Seasoned RVers know the importance of having a generator on hand, especially a quiet one. If you’ve ever been camping next to a group with a generator that’s too loud, then you know how annoying it can be. Not only is it disruptive to your own peace and quiet, but it can also be disruptive to the wildlife.

A generator allows you to have all the comforts of home while on the road, like air conditioning, heat, hot water, and refrigeration. If you plan on boondocking or dry camping, then a generator is an absolute must-have.

When shopping for a generator, make sure to get one that’s quiet and has enough power to run all (if not most) of the appliances and devices you need. Honda and Yamaha are top brands when it comes to generators, but other brands make quiet generators as well.

Don’t forget to do your research and read reviews before making your purchase.

4) Extra Hose

Tagging along with an extra hose on your RV trip may not always sound exciting, but it can definitely save you from a headache (or two). An extra hose comes in handy if your main hose gets damaged or leaks.

It’s also useful for filling up your freshwater tank or for flushing out your black water tank. 

Additionally, there will be instances where you’ll find that hookups aren’t that close to your trailer, and having some extra hoses to extend your reach can be really helpful.

5) An Air Compressor

An air compressor is a useful tool to have on hand, especially if you like to go off-roading. If you get a flat tire or your RV needs more air in the tires, then an air compressor will come in handy.

The last thing you want is to be stranded in the middle of nowhere with a flat tire and no way to fix it.

6) Wheel and Leveling Blocks

Most of the time, you’ll find yourself parked somewhere that’s not entirely level. Whether you’re at an RV park or boondocking in the middle of nowhere, it’s always a good idea to have some wheel and leveling blocks on hand.

Wheel and leveling blocks help to level out your RV so that it’s stable and doesn’t rock back and forth. This is especially important if you have kids or pets in your RV. It also serves as an extra measure of safety in case your RV happens to roll over.

7) Extension Cord

You might not need this all the time, but you’ll still be glad that you have this accessory towed away in your RV. An extension cord comes in handy when you need to plug in your RV at a campsite that’s not close to the electrical hookup.

It’s also useful for powering any appliances or devices that you might have outside of your RV, like a TV or lamp. If you plan on doing any type of outdoor cooking, then an extension cord will be a lifesaver.

Just make sure to get one that’s long enough to reach where you need it to, and don’t forget to pack some extra outlets, too. 

8) Comfortable Camping Chair

After a long day of exploring, you’re going to want to relax in a comfortable chair. And not just any old chair, but a camping chair that’s specifically designed for comfort.

Camping chairs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs. If you like to camp with your family or friends, then you might want to get a chair that has some extra features, like a cup holder or cooler.

Don’t underestimate how important it is to have a comfortable place to sit when you’re camping. You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, and having a comfortable chair will make all the difference!

9) Portable and Quiet Mini-Heater

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean that you won’t need a heater on your RV trip. There will be times when the temperature drops at night, or in the morning, and you’ll be glad to have a portable mini-heater.

A mini-heater is also useful for taking the chill out of the air inside your RV. If your RV doesn’t have central heating, then this must-have accessory will come in handy. We put together an article on the best small mini heaters for your RV life which you can read HERE. 

10) Child Cabinet Locks

Even if you’re not traveling with a child, it’s still a good idea to have some child cabinet locks in your trailer. When you’re on the road and driving a lot everything is moving inside. Even though most RVs come with cabinet locks, they might not be enough. Keep your cabinet contents safe with cabinet locks something like this.

11) Bug Screens or Nets

Bugs are inevitable when you’re spending time outdoors. And while most bugs aren’t harmful, they can still be annoying. To keep the bugs at bay, it’s a good idea to have some bug screens or nets. Most likely your RV has screens on the windows but you might not have it over the door.

You can get bug screens for your windows and doors, or you can get a net to put over your bed. If you’re really adventurous, you can even get a bug net to put over your campsite!

12) Water Filter or Purifier

If you’re going to be camping in an area where the water isn’t potable, then you’ll need a water filter or purifier. This is one of the most important accessories, especially if you plan on doing any cooking or drinking while you’re away from home.

There are a lot of different water filters and purifiers on the market, so it’s important to find one that’s right for you.

13) Closet Organizers

Have you ever gone on a trip and come home to a cluttered, disorganized closet? If so, then you know how important it is to have some closet organizers. While it’s true that some people do just fine without these, they can really come in handy if you have a lot of stuff to pack.

Closet organizers are great for keeping your clothes and belongings organized while you’re on the road. They’ll also help to keep your RV smelling fresh and clean. We recommend these Ziploc Space Bags for storing clothes and other items in your closet.

Bonus: Additional Accessories that Are Good to Have

While the above 13 items are must-haves for your RV, there are a few additional accessories that are also worth considering. Here are a few things that we think are worth mentioning:

Satellite Radio

If you’re going off the grid or boondocking, then you might not have access to traditional radio stations. Satellite radio is a great alternative, and it’s perfect for long road trips.

Solar Charger

A solar charger is a great way to keep your devices charged while you’re away from home. If you’re going to be camping in an area with limited or no electricity, then this accessory is a must-have.

RV GPS

An RV GPS is a great tool for planning your route and finding campgrounds. It can also be helpful in case of emergencies and if you have a taller rig. An RV GPS will give you route options above a certain clearance and weight and will give you warnings before curvy roads or steep grades. Basically, it will consider the fact that you are driving an RV.

First Aid Kit

We can’t avoid accidents, and that’s why it’s always a good idea to have a first aid kit handy. A well-stocked first-aid kit is one of the most important travel trailer accessories you can have. Bring some band-aids, pain killers, and antiseptic wipes, just to be safe.

Paper Maps

Sure, technology made life easier, but there’s still something to be said for good old-fashioned paper maps. If you’re going to be traveling in an area with limited or no cell service, then paper maps are a must-have. They can be helpful in case of emergencies, and they’re also great for planning your route.

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