Essential RV Must Haves for Your First Trip

on Oct 29, 2020, Updated Mar 21, 2024

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When we purchased our first travel trailer, we were initially overwhelmed with all the additional information and supplies we didn’t know about.

We had a list of fun things we wanted to buy for our RV but quickly realized we would need to tackle a list of necessities first to set up camp.

Buying an RV isn’t like buying a car and it isn’t like buying a house. I suppose, like the vehicle itself, it’s a hybrid of the two.

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This means there are a few items you need to buy in addition to your new rig before you can safely get on the road.

That first trip can feel a little stressful, but I promise you it gets easier and that process happens pretty quickly!

What does Every RV Need?

No matter how big or how small your trailer or RV is, almost all RVs need the same basic essentials.

If you are buying new, you may be surprised to learn that these things are not always included with your big purchase!

Buying used may give you a break on a few items, but there will be others that need to be replaced.

RV owners will need the following to get set up, and we haven’t even gone inside yet!

Yes, before we get to the fun parts of decorating and organizing and packing your RV, we have to make sure the rig itself is functional.

You will need some additional supplies for the following RV systems:

Leveling
Plumbing
Electrical

RV Essentials – Top Picks

Wondering what you really need to get on the road with your new RV or looking for gifts for a new RV owner?

I have compiled a list of what we consider to be the absolutely non-negotiable must haves for Rving. There is a lot to consider but when it comes to the essentials, the list really isn’t that long.

The costs do add up though, so be sure to make space in your budget so you can get out there and start your camping adventure!

Read: Disney’s Fort Wilderness Preferred Campsite Review

Drinking Safe Water Hose

The Teknor Apex Zero-G hose came highly recommended to us from many seasoned RVers and we love it! There are a few different lengths to choose from.

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Water Pressure Regulator

For just a few dollars, you can protect your entire RV plumbing system. Enough said.

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RV/Marine Water Filter

This is a great little filter for outside your rig. We like to attach it between the hose and the RV as a final point of entry and filtration. I also love the added hose to allow for a bend in the hose without bursting.

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Surge Protector

Surge protectors are essential for RV safety and care. If there is an issue with the shore power, this will act as a barrier between the power and your rig! Make sure you find the right model for your specific RV and I recommend the ones with a cover to protect against the elements.

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Andersen Levelers

There are quite a few ways to level a trailer, but for a beginner, these levelers are worth their weight in gold! My husband backs in and I can get these under the tires in no time.

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Leveling Blocks

Another option for leveling are these stackable blocks. We have a set of these for when we need a little extra support. They can also be used under the stabilizer jacks or stacked up as an extra step if needed.

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Level

We use a basic tool like this one when we level. There are high tech systems out there that people seem to love, but we've found that simple works just fine for our needs.

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Wheel Chocks

We use these affordable rubber wheel chocks on the side of the RV that we didn't have to level. They are great!

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RV Sewer Hose Kit

We like the Camco 20' (39742) RhinoFLEX 20-Foot RV Sewer Hose Kit for the transparent elbow and cap covers.

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RV Sewer Hose Support

At first we thought a hose support wasn't necessary. That was before we found ourselves trying to empty the tanks up hill from our drain! The Camco 20ft Sidewinder RV Sewer Hose Support is now on our must-have list.

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Disposable Gloves

You have to empty the black tank. There is no getting around it. Make sure you have gloves!

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