Basic RV Accessories Starter Kit: RV Gear You Need!

Before hitting the road in your new motorhome or camper, you’ll need the best RV accessories to get you set up for successful trip and setting up your campsite. A good basic RV starter kit includes all you need to plug into electric, hook up the water, empty your tanks, keep your RV clean and everything in between. 

So, let’s see what we’ve laid out as our most recommended camper accessories kit for RVs to help you get you set up for the road.

Basic RV Accessories Starter Kit: RV Gear You Need!

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RV Accessories: ELECTRIC COMPONENTS

Electrical System Surge Protector

Some campgrounds are known to have dirty electricity or spikes that could damage all of the electrical components inside your RV or camper.

But also, even being plugged into your own house can cause an electrical surge or spike in electricity. So, it’s important to protect your RV and all of its’ electrical components and appliances.

A surge protector provides that line side protection from the pedestal and provides protection on the load side. It also protects you from frequency issues.

This means that if you have power faults occurring from wiring issues or equipment failures, this system will protect your RV’s electrical system.

Any elevated ground current issues in the RV will be detected and your RV’s electric system will be cut off instantly. 

For our big rig RV fifth wheel, we used the 50Amp surge protector. But for those with smaller towable campers, truck campers, vans or tiny motorhomes like our Winnebago View,  you only need a 30Amp surge protector instead. there are other electrical protection options as well.

A great RV tip, before plugging your RV electric cord into any electric source or power pedestal, always test the electricity using your surge protector first to see the electric output.

PRO TIP: It’s important to know how much electricity is going into your coach. Read Why an RV Surge Protector is Needed for Motorhomes and Campers

Electrical Cord Adapters

Some RV parks and campgrounds may not have the exact electric pedestal setup needed for your specific RV.

So, it’s smart to keep a couple RV electrical adapters (also known as dog bones) to convert power to your RV.

For a 30amp RV (vans, smaller motorhomes and travel trailers, truck campers), you’ll need a 50 amp male to 30 amp female adapter. You may also need this to convert from 50amp electric source to accommodate your 30amp RV.

RV Accessories: WATER COMPONENTS

There’s there water component accessories you need to complete your water hookup; water hose, water pressure regulator, and water filtration system.

But before connecting any of your RV water hookup accessories to outside water sources, make certain it’s labeled “POTABLE WATER”. Never fill your RV’s water tank using the water spigot located at the dump stations unless there is a separate spigot labeled “Potable Water”.

Also, before hooking up your RV to outside water sources, we highly recommend spraying the spigot handle and hose attachment threads with straight bleach and wiping with a clean cloth to remove debris and contaminants.

Potable Water Hose

RV water hoses are either white or blue to signify they are for potable water only. These water hoses are to connect from the water spigot to your RV utility panel or your camper’s incoming water port.

For big rig RVs or if you travel extensively, we recommend getting a 50′ marine-grade drinking potable water hose. 

The reason is different campgrounds have different utility configurations that may require longer hose length. Or, you may need to reach a potable water spigot that’s further away from your RV or camper.

However, because our small motorhome is limited on storage space, we now utilize an expandable zero gravity drinking water hose.

Water Pressure Regulator

A water pressure regulator attaches to the campground water spigot. It reduces incoming water pressure to 50-55 psi that feeds from the water source, through your RV potable water hose and into your RV. This must have water hose accessory protects and prevents both your water hose and your RV’s plumbing from high pressure that could lead to your pipes bursting.

Also, the screened washer prevents debris from running through your camper water system and is easy to clean.

PRO TIP: A must read – Why an RV Water Pressure Regulator is a MUST for ALL Campers

Water Filtration System

A good water filter system is necessary for your RV because it removes or reduces odors, chlorine, chemicals and contaminants from the water before it reaches your RV. An RV water filter system will protect your and your family’s health.

Plus, they help keep your RVs plumbing system free of sediment and lime scale. And it helps prevent getting hard water spots on anything water splashes on or touches.

I’m sure you’ve seen those small blue canisters that connect between the water spigot and water hose leading into an RV’s water port. Those are a basic water filters which typically lasts an entire season. However, these are more for seasonal or weekend campers.

But, or if you’re a bit more finicky about your water or you’re RVing full-time, you definitely want a more comprehensive water filtration system such as a 2-stage or 3-stage water filter system for RVs.

RV Pro Tip: Check out our review of the Clear Source RV Water Filter System.

That said, if you’re really particular about your drinking water, look into getting a Berkey water filter system.

The Travel Berkey is ideal for small RVs and campers. But for big rig RVs that have ample counter space, the Big Berkey is perfect, especially  for those RVing with families.

But, don’t let the price talk you out of getting one. We have the Travel Berkey in our tiny Class C and absolutely love it. Having no chemical taste, the water tastes so much better. It actually encourages us to drink more water. And, those chemicals aren’t getting into your body.

Another plus, you’ll never be buying bottled water again which that in itself, pays for your Berkey over a short time.

RV Accessories: SEWER, BLACK TANK & GRAY TANK

Sewer Hose and Connectors

You’ll need a sewer hose and proper fitting connectors whether you’re hooked up to sewer at your site or when you have to empty your tanks at the dump station.

An RV sewer hose kit, which includes a swivel fitting, translucent elbow with 4-In-1 dump station fitting, and storage caps, is ideal for new RVs.

PRO TIP: If you’re short on storage space in your RV, read how we store our RV sewer hose storage.

Check out our Valterra Sewer Hose Storage info video below:

Disposable Gloves

You’ll need to stock a box of protective gloves for those dirty jobs. For one, you should wear them each time you hookup and flush your black tank.

But also, they’re nice to have if you have to repack wheel bearings, cleaning the grill or other messy maintenance tasks.

It’s also a good idea to keep a few pair of disposable gloves in your toad or tow vehicle to use at fuel stations, working under the hood or picking up trash.

They  are also beneficial for cleaning out the fire pit or picking up trash before you pack up to leave your campsite (or before?). But, make certain you get the correct size. 

Do YOU know what Leave No Trace means?

Black Tank Treatment

Most RV owners use a black tank treatment because to eliminate the odors and break down the poop in the black tank.

The two most popular brands are Happy Camper and Camco TST ultra concentrate black tank treatments.

Whichever you use, it’s important to know how to properly clean and maintain your black tank before even setting out on the highway.

Or, you can use the geo method as recommended by a leading holding tank specialist in the video below on RV holding tanks and water system maintenance. 

RV Toilet Paper

Bathroom tissue is not created equal!

You can buy RV toilet paper in the camping and RV section of big box or camping stores. However, you don’t need to waste your money it (it’s expensive!).

That said, you shouldn’t just buy any toilet paper to use in your RV toilet. You need to make certain it specifies on the package that it’s septic safe.

We use rapid dissolving septic safe toilet paper. It breaks up almost instantly. Thus, eliminating potential clumping that may clog your system.

You can usually find septic-safe toilet paper at your grocery or big box stores or on Amazon.

PRO TIP:  NEVER flush anything except septic safe toilet paper into your black tank. This includes feminine products, personal hygiene or baby wipes.. And always flush using LOTS OF WATER!

RV Accessories: MECHANICS

Basic RV Tool Kit

We talked about putting together a basic tool kit in a previous article. But, you should also include these in addition to your RV accessories starter kit:

• • • Eternabond Tape
    • Dicor roof sealant (self leveling)
    • Caulk gun
    • Silicone spray
    • Duct tape
    • All-purpose lubricant
    • Electrical tape
    • Cable zip ties

RV Accessories: STABILIZATION

Leveling Blocks and Wheel Chocks

Stackable leveling blocks were the very first RV accessory we purchase for our former fifth wheel.

They are a multi use leveler for under RV leveling jacks.  

But also, leveling blocks can be placed under tires for those hard-to-level sites. And, for trailers, they can be used as a tongue wheel support.

Leveling blocks can support most RVs on any surface.

PRO TIP:  How to Stabilize Your RV – Leveling Tips and Tools

In addition to a set of leveling blocks, you’ll need a couple wheel chocks to place in front of and/or behind your RV tires (and tow vehicle or toad) wherever you park. They help keep your camper from rolling forward or backward while parked.

Also, wheel chocks are also a must-have for towable RVs when conducting your pull-test before getting underway.

Check out how towing specialists from CURT demonstrate how to properly couple your fifth wheel and perform a tug test, using wheel chocks. This ensures your fifth wheel hitch system is secure and ready for towing.

PRO TIP: It’s important to know how to care for your Tires. Read our Proper RV Tire Safety and Maintenancefor some tire safety tips.

RV Accessories: RV CLEANING GEAR

Broom and Dust Pan

You’ll soon realize the need for a broom and dust pan. While a vacuum cleaner may be nice for indoor chores, an old fashion broom cleaning will hold you over until you can get out your vacuum.

You can also use the broom to sweep off your RV roof and slide tops as well as the bed of your truck if necessary.

PRO TIP: Looking for small vacuum for your RV? Check out our 5 Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaners for RVs, Boats & Cars.

Wash Bucket

A simple wash bucket is a must for every RVer. It’s an essential item that you can use for sponge baths, washing or rinsing clothes, washing dishes outside, washing your RV or toting supplies.

But since regular buckets take up valuable space in your camper’s storage compartments, A collapsible bucket is just the ticket.

Shop Towels

You’ll need a good supply of microfiber cleaning cloths for all of your cleaning chores inside the RV or outside.

Try to get a multi-color pack to divide according to specific chores. They’re perfect for dusting, polishing, multi-surface cleaning, etc. 

If they get too soiled or oily, you can just toss them in the trash as to not get any chemicals on other surfaces. But for light-use, those shop towels can be washed in the laundry.

PRO TIP:  Be aware! Most campgrounds and RV parks don’t allow you to wash your RV. So, to keep your motorhome or camper looking great, use Waterless Wash Wax ALL for those in-between cleaning.

Other RV accessories and RV gear that you may need for your camper or motorhome:

Best Practical Gifts for RV Owners for Under $10

100+ Ultimate Best Gift Ideas for RV Owners

Outdoor Camping Gear for Small RVs and Campers

Must Have RV Emergency and Roadside Safety Gear

Epic Tailgating Gear for Weekend Camping

If you’re looking for more great additions to your RV starter kit, check out our collaboration video (below) we shared with some of our favorite full-time RV friends:

Also, here’s a video (below) that we put together with 10 other RVers on what RV accessories they DON’T recommend!

Wrapping up our RV Accessories Starter Kit

This wraps up our recommended RV Accessories to get you started on your RV adventures!

Regardless if your motorhome or camper is new vs. new-to-you, these basic RV essentials are necessary. As you get proficient at RVing, you can add other gear to your own list. 

We do caution you to not buy every RV gadget out there. You’ll only end up wasting your money on things that you seriously don’t need or won’t fit your RV.

If you go with our recommendations, you’ll be well on our way to a great camping adventure.