If you had told me that, living in an RV, I would own some of the things on this list, I would have laughed. I’ve always prided myself on being somewhat of a minimalist, owning only what I need. Well, the truth is – you don’t need anything on this list, but a lot of this stuff is really cool.
There’s nothing better than having a well-stocked RV with the best gadgets. They make our lives more interesting, fun, and practical. Why have a normal, bulky table taking up space, when you can have a portable one that pops up?
Having extra gear that adds excitement to your life can be just the thing you need to make your RV trip more enjoyable. I learned that to live the day-to-day life on the road, it’s important to have fun with the things that you do and the items that you bring into your come.
If you’re looking to add some excitement and creativity into your RVs, keep reading:
Table of Contents
1. Electric griddle
Electric griddles offer users a large cooking area that stovetop cookware may not have. An electric griddle has an adjustable heat control that one can use for cooking or warming up food. Since I prefer conserving the propane in my RV, I use the electric griddle to cook several dishes at a go without wasting gas. I also use the appliance outside when I want to prepare a dish and enjoy the weather.
2. Camco Deluxe Folding Grill Table
This grill table is a strong and reliable piece of furniture with several storage elements and an aluminum tabletop. As described, it’s a foldable table, which only holds the frame as well as the side tables. The table is also available with a carry bag that fits nicely inside
The lower wire shelf provides enough space to store my utensils. The table also has several elements, including a paper towel holder and four hooks. Since it is portable, and the side tables offer plenty of working area, my family and I use them as dining tables. I find it easy to assemble the frame since it has clips on its underside where I just attach to the frame.
3. Screened tent (or pop-up gazebo)
This is an instant shelter and sunshade that blocks around 86 percent of UV rays. The tent does not block the view and takes less time to set up. It meets the set quality standards and protects not only users from the scorching sun but also helps the campers stay cool and comfy.
I purchased the tent after realizing my family and I were having a hard time while camping in campsites with no shade and in areas infested with mosquitoes. After buying the tent, campsites with no shades became our favorite. It makes an enormous difference, and we no longer have to worry about mosquito biting. The tent also blocks rain if it is not heavy and cuts down the breeze a bit when it is too windy.
4. Walkie talkie
This handheld two-way radio device with a push to talk button comes in handy when the source of electricity of my RV is too low to charge my cell phone or when camping in areas where the mobile phone signal is not stable.
Sometimes, back when camping in a very remote area with a bunch of friends, I had a serious problem finding my way back to camp from fetching firewood for our bonfire. Fortunately, I had a walkie talkie device that helped me contact my friends for help and got to camp safely.
5. Solo Stove portable campfire
Useful for cooking, this is a wide wood-burning fire pit made of long-lasting premium-grade steel. Manufacturers designed the pit to ensure a fire burns efficiently. The solo stove portable campfire has a base that allows oxygen to flow and fuel the embers. It also has vent holes at the top to allow the heated oxygen to fuel the flames.
With this portable campfire, I don’t have to worry about clearing away debris from the campfire that has been used before and gathering wood. The portable store helps eliminate the extra time and hassle during our camping adventure. It is easy to set up and works effectively.
6. Extended mirrors (for side mirrors)
The extended side mirrors come in handy when towing a camper. They provide at least 200 feet to the rear, making it easy for the drivers to monitor both the vehicle and what they are towing. In addition, most states in the U.S have laws that demand the use of extended mirrors when towing to ascertain visibility.
Without the extended mirrors, I noticed a few blind spots that made it difficult for me to see what is on the side or behind my vehicle. Driving with blind spots was difficult and uncomfortable. However, after buying the extended side mirrors, I could clearly see every inch of my vehicle and drive confidently in various states.
7. Wireless backup camera
Even with excellent driving skills, reversing an RV can be a challenge to most drivers. The side mirrors can help during this task, but some blind spots can make the task even more difficult since one may accidentally run into another motorist or vehicle.
However, with a wireless backup camera, reversing gets easy and fun. The backup camera provides a clear picture of areas where your side mirror may miss. The camera also helps the driver get a view of low spots behind the RV to avoid obstacles.
8. Instant pot
This is the most popular multi-cooker brand with several functions, including slow cooking, pressure cooking, warming, rice cooking, and steaming. All that in one appliance, which helps users speed up the cooking process. After a long day of driving, the appliance can make it easier to get a delicious and hearty meal on the table with minimal effort and in a brief period.
9. Portable toilet w/ tent
An outdoor portable tent offers privacy and shelter while using the toilet. The most significant problem that most people who spend quality time outdoors camping or hiking in remote areas face is going to the bathroom. Some places can be difficult to find a private spot, while dangerous animals may inhabit some areas. Therefore, a privacy tent may come in handy.
With the portable toilet with a tent, I no longer have to worry about the late night or early morning inconvenience no matter where my family and I are camping.
10. Retractable laundry line
The laundry lines are an excellent addition to your camper. It offers an extra space to hang wet hand washed clothing. It is small and lightweight, making it easy to throw in a backpack or suitcase when going camping. The retractable laundry line is made using stainless steel. It allows the user to stretch out the line when necessary and put it away afterward.
It comes with a special bracket that I use to attach to a wall for easy removal. It offers 49 feet of drying space when extended. I find it very easy to install.
11. Thermacell products
These products effectively repel mosquitoes creating a safe environment up to 15 feet radius. The thermal cell product is easy to use and stylish. The device looks great on any deck or patio in my RV while keeping mosquitoes away from bothering and biting my family.
Before I knew about Thermacell products, I used sprays to keep away mosquitoes while camping. The scent affected our breathing, making it very difficult to enjoy our camping nights. However, when I learned about thermal cell products, our camping nights have been full of fun with no mosquitoes bothering and biting.
12. RV couch coaster
This original and patented drink coaster holds all my favorite drinks securely on my sofa, whether hot or cold. This essential tool is designed to keep drinks next to you safely. I find it ideal for the entire family and suitable for bottles, mugs, cans, and tumblers.
The drink coaster works in various sizes and shapes of the sofa arms. I simply place the tool over my arm, pour my drink, and get comfortable. With the drink coaster, I do not have to worry about spillage while on the move or staining my clothes.
13. Collapsible ladder
The ladder comes in handy when I want to check on my solar panels on the RV’s roof. The collapsible ladder occupies minimal space, and I find it very easy to lift. With the ladder, I do not have to worry about borrowing and lugging a bulky ladder from other RV owners around when I want to clean my RV’s roof.
14. HitchSafe key vault
During outdoor activities, most people have to hide their cards and keys, among other valuables. However, with a HitchSafe Key Vault, one does not have to through the hassle of searching for the best place to store their valuables.
The vault features all-metal construction for maximum security. It also allows one to change and set their combination anytime with 10,000 codes. The vault comes with a heavy-duty dust cover that protects and conceals the items stored in it.
15. Wrap around step rug
Manufacturers made the rug of looped PVC material, which dries fast and offers a cushioned step. The rug is easy to clean. It is available with a TPE backing that helps keep the rug in the right position. The wrap around step rug is compatible with both manual and electric RV steps and adjusts to fit the RV’s steps with a depth of between 8 and 11 inches.
Installing it is easy, I simply wrap the rag around the RV step. It comes with a hook and springs that help attach to the grommets that fit the step. The rug helps keep the RV clean by cutting down the tracked dirt and debris.
16. Portable camping hammock
It is very compact for travel and more versatile and comfortable than camping chairs. When going camping to a campsite that has no trees around, the portable camping hammock comes in handy.
The hammock is lightweight, weighing only 1 pound, and folding it is easy. Manufacturers use stretch nylon material with triple stitching reinforcement at the seams. I find it very comfortable and keeps me off from earth crawling animals and bugs.
It is also very easy to use, lasts for an extended period, and is stylish. The portable camping hammock is suitable for camping and for those who enjoy hanging around the beach.
17. Bike hitch rack
No camping trip is complete without cruising around the campground on bikes or scooters. However, when going camping, there is often no space to transport bikes in the RV. The best solution to this is not to leave the bikes behind, but to carry them to the RV’s bumper, ladder, or hitch receiver.
It is essential to get a bike hitch rack that is compatible with your RV. The hitch-mounted racks are available in 2, 3, and 4 bike designs. Also, the rack comes in unique designs, whether hanging or platform rack styles. Most bike hitch racks are easy to use and install.
I use one to transport my family bikes comfortably and safely. The bike hitch rack also protects the RV by preventing scratches and tangled components.
18. Collapsible trash can
I find it more convenient and civilized to use the collapsible trash can than hanging a black trash bag on at the RV’s door. The collapsible trash can is portable, convenient, and lightweight. It has a zipper lid that helps keep flies and rodents away.
I have three for the RV. I use one for dirty laundry, one for soda cans, and one for trash. It is difficult to fill the collapsible trash cans since they pop up, making it easy storage that does not take much room.
19. Frozen drink maker
Having a steady supply of ice in the RV is something downright luxurious. The frozen drink water helps cool soda drinks and makes iced coffee in the afternoon. Frozen drink water comes in handy when camping during the hot summer.
20. Micro blender
Micro blenders are compact enough to fit on my RV’s counters. I have one, which comes with a 1000 watt motor that provides me with freshly blended ingredients. The micro blender blends fruits, seeds, vegetables, and whole ice cubes.
It is available with containers that I find convenient to drink from. I only twist the sealing lids and enjoy my nutritious recipe or concoction outside. The blender is easy to use and clean.
21. Foldable canvas table
A foldable table is essential when camping since it brings the comforts of home to the campsite. The tables are available in a sturdy aluminum or steel coated frame and a canvas material that folds up for compact carrying. The foldable canvas tables are easy to set up and carry.
It may not be that strong to hold heavy items, but I find it convenient for placing food, coffee, or any other lightweight items.
22. Outdoor camping rug
It helps keep a substantial portion of dirt out of the RV. An outdoor camping rug acts as the first line of defense. It is less of a rug and more of a lightweight plastic mat. The rug is lightweight, making it useful since most campers get overloaded easily with heavy gear.
With an outdoor camping rug, you can sweep the dirt off it easily. Also, in case it gets rained on or gets into contact with water, it dries fast. I find it easy to clean after every camping trip. I hose it off with some detergent and let it dry.
The outdoor camping rug comes with a small bag, making it easy for one to store it after use or cleaning.
23. Handheld vacuum
RV’s have hard to reach areas that need frequent cleaning. Even with the most effective detergent, it’s difficult to clean these areas. However, with a handheld vacuum, I access all the dirt in confined areas easily.
As the name suggests, the appliance is held in one hand. The maneuverability of a handheld vacuum is excellent, and its powerful vacuum efficiency makes it easy to clean an RV in less time. The appliance has the potential to clean walls, window blinds, and air vents. It is easy to use and store the unit.
24. Folding step stool
Fold step stools come in handy when I need a couple of extra inches to reach the high storage cabinets in my RV. The folding step stool is lightweight and occupies little space. Since I like storing most of my gear and tools on the top shelves, I use the step stool to access what I want easily.
25. Portable meat smoker
Being able to barbecue while on the move is more adventurous. Good time with family and friends enjoying great food creates splendid memories. A portable meat smoker has helped me create these memories for my family.
Made of quality material, a portable meat smoker can last a long time. The smoker is easy to use. The grates, heat deflators, firepot, and drip pans are made of stainless steel, making it easy to clean the meat smoker. With the smoker, I can grill, bake, sear, and dehydrate.
