Must-Have RV Accessories for New Owners: Insights from 25+ Years of Experience
- Lee Burbank
- Dec 15, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 31
Essential Gear for Every New RVer
After 25+ years of full-time RVing, I've learned what gear actually works—and what fails on the road. This list focuses on 12 essentials every new RVer needs. Whether you're hitting the open road for the first time or upgrading your setup, these accessories will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Surge Protector: A Top Priority
Every RV needs EMS protection. Cheap power strips just won't cut it. A quality surge protector safeguards your electrical system from power surges and spikes. This is crucial for preventing costly damage to your RV's electronics.
2. Sewer Hose Kit: Essential for Waste Management
Get a sewer hose kit with swivel fittings and crush-proof walls. This will ensure a hassle-free experience when it comes to waste disposal. Trust me, you don't want to deal with leaks or breaks while you're on the road. One of the things we have learned about sewer hose that in most cases it really doesnt pay to buy really expensive sewer hose kits. Given the sun and elements, chances are you will need to replace it once a year
3. Black Water Tank (sewer) Treatment
Black tank treatments are easy to overlook until you’re dealing with odors, poor sensor readings, or a tank that just doesn’t seem to work right. Over time, we’ve moved away from harsh chemical treatments — not just for environmental reasons, but because we’ve found they don’t perform as well long-term. Enzyme-based and eco-friendly treatments do a better job breaking down waste and toilet paper, help keep sensors cleaner, and avoid the buildup issues chemicals can cause. Choosing the right black tank treatment isn’t about covering up smells; it’s about keeping the entire system working reliably. Both of these are excellent products.
4. Water Filter & Pressure Regulator: Protect Your Plumbing
A water filter and pressure regulator protect your plumbing from potentially harmful campground water. Clean water is essential for cooking, cleaning, and drinking. Don't skimp on this!s. We have tried a bunch of cheaper models of this, but we found this to be the very best!
5. Wash Wax All: Exterior Cleaning Made Easy
This one-step cleaner and wax actually shines black RVs. It lasts a long time and is easy to use. Keeping your RV looking great is part of the fun!
6. RV Replacement Loungers: Comfort Matters
Invest in excellent quality RV replacement loungers. They provide comfort and style, making your RV feel more like home. Plus, you'll appreciate the incredible customer service that comes with these products.
7. Roof and Sidewall Caulking: Keep It Sealed
The industry standard for RV caulking is Dicor. This product is essential for maintaining your RV's integrity. It helps prevent leaks and water damage, which can be a nightmare. They have a version for verticle services also.
8. Reliable Indoor Cameras: Peace of Mind
Invest in the best, most reliable indoor cameras to watch over your pets and belongings. This is especially useful when you're away from your RV for a while.
9. All Cotton Sheets, RV sized
We have tried lots of sheets and many were too small or too large or the fitted bottom worked well but the top sheet was way to small. These sheets are the best we have found. They last and are very soft. Lots of colors and sizes.
10. TPMS - (Tire Pressure Monitoring System
A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is one of the most important safety upgrades you can add to an RV, especially if you’re towing a vehicle or trailer. Slow leaks, overheating tires, and pressure loss often happen long before you can feel or see a problem, and by the time you do, damage is already done. A TPMS gives you real-time pressure and temperature readings while you’re driving, allowing you to catch issues early and avoid blowouts, wheel damage, or worse. When towing, it’s even more critical — you can’t see or feel what’s happening back there, and a TPMS acts as your early warning system, helping protect both your RV and whatever you’re pulling behind it. We have used this system for years and it is excellent. It is easy to setup, reliable and easy to maintain and to operate. You will need to buy enough transmitters for all the RV tires, and for your tow vehicle. If you tow a trailer, chances are you car or truck already has a TPMS built in, so you will need to get one for your trailer.
(not essential, but just for fun) Unique Customized RV Gear: Stand Out on the Road
Find unique, customized RV clothing, mugs, and more. This gear is something you can't find anywhere else, and it adds a personal touch to your travels.
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
EXPERIENCED gear: We've used it ourselves for over 25 years.
RESEARCHED gear: Top-rated from trusted RV sources.
No sponsored posts—just what works.
Conclusion: Gear Up for Your RV Adventure!
Ready to gear up? With these essential accessories, you're well on your way to a successful RV experience. Each item has been carefully vetted based on real-world use, ensuring you have the best tools at your disposal.
Lee Burbank - Full-Time RVer Since 2000
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