RVing is about the freedom of adventure, and creating unforgettable memories. But to truly enjoy life on the road, you need the right RV accessories to keep you safe while driving and comfortable, once you’ve arrived at your destination.
Some RV gear keeps you safe on the road, while others make your campsite feel like home. From driving down the highway to relaxing by the campfire, you’ll be ready for every part of the adventure!
Table of Contents
Dash Cam
Jack Pad
TPMS
Tires
Hitch
Clam Pop Up Screen Tent
Double Camping Padded Loveseat
Drinking Water Hose
Indoor/Outdoor
Water Pressure Regulator Valve
Waterproof LED Lights
Accessories for Safe Travel
Before you think about camp chairs, hammocks, or fire pits, your first priority should be safety. A few well-chosen tools can help prevent breakdowns, accidents, or costly damage.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the 10 must-have RV accessories every traveler should invest in — with details on why each one matters and how it improves your RVing experience.
Dash Cam
A dash cam is no longer just a “nice to have”—it’s an essential tool for RVers. When you’re hauling a trailer or driving a motorhome, you’re navigating bigger blind spots, heavier traffic, and more unpredictable situations on the road.
- Accident protection: In the unfortunate event of a collision, dash cam footage can protect you legally and financially.
- Insurance support: Many insurers use footage to resolve claims quickly, helping you avoid costly legal battles.
- Driving Confidence: Knowing you’re recording keeps you more alert and defensive on the road.
Look for dash cams with wide-angle lenses, night vision, loop recording, and dual cameras (front and rear) for maximum coverage. Popular RV-friendly brands include Garmin and Nextbase.
Jack Pad (Landing Gear Pads)
One accessory that many RVers overlook until it’s too late is a good set of jack pads (also known as landing gear pads). When you extend your stabilizer jacks or leveling system, the entire weight of your RV is resting on small metal feet.
On firm concrete, that’s not usually an issue, but on soft ground, gravel, or sand, those feet can quickly sink — taking your RV with them.
- Stability on Soft Ground: After heavy rain, soft dirt or sandy soil (like you’ll find in Florida and many coastal areas) can’t support the weight of an RV. Jack pads spread out that weight across a larger surface area, preventing sinking.
- Protects Your RV & Gear: If your jacks sink unevenly, your RV can tilt, doors may not shut properly, and stress can build on your frame. Pads prevent unnecessary strain and damage.
- Versatility: Jack pads can be used on dirt, gravel, asphalt, or even grass — giving you peace of mind no matter where you camp.
Always carry at least four pads in your storage bay. If you’re traveling in areas with soft or sandy soil, consider permanent snap-on pads for the easiest setup!
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) – TST
Tires are the unsung heroes of your RV. They carry thousands of pounds of weight and endure long hours of travel.
But did you know that tire issues are a top cause of RV breakdowns. A TPMS, such as the TST system, prevents problems before they start.
- Real-time monitoring: Sensors track both the pressure and temperature, alerting you instantly to leaks or overheating.
- Early warnings: Alerts you before a blowout.
- Extended tire life: Properly inflated tires wear evenly and last longer, saving you hundreds in premature replacements.
Quality Tires
It’s tempting to overlook tires when shopping for your RV, but they’re one of the most important upgrades you can make. Many factory RV tires aren’t built for long-term use under heavy loads. Upgrading saves you from costly and dangerous blowouts.
- Look for: Load rating, reinforced sidewalls, and reputable brands.
- Benefits: Safety, smoother rides, and longer tire life.
- Ride Comfort: Better tires give a smoother ride, reducing stress on your suspension and interior fixtures.
- Fuel Efficiency: Properly rated tires can even help improve gas mileage
Look for reputable brands with the correct ST (special trailer) rating and load range. Always check your tire’s date codes to ensure freshness, tires degrade with age, not just mileage.
Quality Hitch
Your hitch isn’t just an accessory, it’s the critical link between your tow vehicle and your trailer. A cheap or improperly sized hitch can put your entire setup at risk what keeps your trailer secure. A reliable one is non-negotiable.
- Sway control: Reduces risk from crosswinds and traffic.
- Weight distribution: Protects your tow vehicle.
- Durability: Quality materials last longer.
Match your hitch to your trailer’s weight and always check torque settings. A hitch lock adds another layer of safety against theft.
Accessories for Life on the Road
Once you’ve arrived at your campsite safely, it’s time to make life outdoors comfortable, functional, and fun! These accessories transform your campsite into a home away from home!
With a little help from our friends, Peeples and Places, we are able to share their tried and true RV lifestyle accessories that will elevate your camping experience!
Outdoor Clam Pop-Up Screen Tent
Nothing kills a camping vibe faster than mosquitoes and flies swarming your dinner table. Keeps bugs at bay while providing the comfort of an instant outdoor living room.
- Fast setup: Pops open in under a minute.
- Bug protection: Enjoy meals and games in peace.
- Spacious: Fits tables, chairs, or even an outdoor kitchen.
Click below for Peeples and Places favorite Pop-Up Screen Tent!
Choose a model that folds down small enough to fit in your RV’s storage bays. And for added convenience and comfort, a ground tarp inside makes cleanup easier after muddy or sandy trips!
Double Camping Padded Loveseat
Regular camping chairs work just fine, but why not make your evening by the campfire a more enjoyable experience?! This padded loveseat takes campfire comfort to the next level.
Click below for Peeples and Places favorite padded loveseat!
- Cozy seating: Feels like bringing your couch outdoors.
- Couple- or pet-friendly: Perfect for sharing space.
- Durable: Often rated for 500+ lbs.
Invest in a weather-resistant fabric to avoid damage from dew or light rain. Keep a storage bag handy to pack it quickly.
Drinking Water Hose
A drinking water-safe hose is one of the simplest yet most overlooked RV essentials. Using a standard garden hose can make your water taste bad, or worse, introduce harmful chemicals and even bacteria.
- Safe materials: BPA-free and lead-free.
- Better taste: No plastic or chemical flavor.
- Durability: Made for RV water pressure.
Carry at least 25 feet, or 50 if you camp often at state or national parks where hookups may be farther away. In cold climates, consider a heated drinking water hose to prevent freezing!
Indoor/Outdoor Rug
An indoor/outdoor RV rug is one of those underrated items you’ll use every single trip.
Click below for Peeples and Places favorite Indoor/Outdoor Rug!
- Keeps dirt outside: Place it by your entry steps to stop mud, sand, and leaves from getting inside.
- Defined outdoor space: Creates a patio feel at your campsite.
- Comfortable underfoot: Great for barefoot mornings with coffee.
- Easy to clean: Most are mold- and mildew-resistant, and can be hosed off quickly.
Many RVers choose rugs that fold compactly for travel but cover a generous space when laid out. It’s a simple accessory that makes your site look tidy and inviting.
Waterproof LED Rope Lights
Click below for Peeples and Places favorite LED lights!
Lighting makes or breaks your campsite vibe, and LED rope lights are both practical and fun.
- Visibility & safety: Line them along steps, awnings, or walkways to prevent nighttime trips and falls.
- Ambience: Soft, warm light creates an inviting space for evening campfires, meals, or card games.
- Energy efficient: LED lights sip power, making them boondocking-friendly.
- Weatherproof: Designed to withstand rain, dew, and outdoor conditions.
Wrap them around your awning arms, line them along the ground, or hang them from trees. Whatever your glowing desire may be, a little twinkle goes a long way!
FAQ About RV Accessories
1. What are the most important RV accessories for beginners?
For new RVers, the most important accessories include a drinking water-safe hose, a water pressure regulator, jack pads for stability, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). These basics protect your RV from costly damage and ensure safe, comfortable camping.
2. Which RV accessories improve safety the most?
Safety-focused RV accessories include dash cams for accident protection, TPMS to prevent blowouts, quality tires for long-haul durability, and a properly rated hitch with sway control. These essentials reduce risks on the road and give you more peace of mind while traveling.
3. How do I choose the right RV accessories for camping?
Start by focusing on your needs: safety while driving, comfort at the campsite, and convenience for setup and teardown. Essential camping accessories include a screen tent for bug-free space, a padded loveseat for campfire seating, an indoor/outdoor rug, and LED lights for nighttime visibility and ambiance.
Final Thoughts
RVing is about experiencing freedom and extending fun, but just like any other hobby in life, the right gear can make all the difference.
- For safety: Dash cams, TPMS systems, quality tires, hitches, and water pressure regulators protect your investment and your family.
- For comfort: Screen tents, padded loveseats, rugs, safe water hoses, and LED lights turn campsites into welcoming, stress-free spaces.
Investing in these must-have accessories ensures fewer breakdowns, more relaxation, and most of all… making memories that will last a lifetime!
