When it comes to RV living, the big-ticket items tend to steal the spotlight. Think: your rig, tow vehicle, or solar setup. Make no mistake, those are absolutely essential for your RV adventures! But once you have those big purchases out of the way, it’s often the little things that make your life on the road just a little better or a bit easier.
And they don’t have to cost big bucks. In fact, many can come from your petty cash fund. Yet these unsung, affordable heroes can help you avoid fumbling in the dark, sleeping on an angle, flooding your kitchen, or spending way too much time at the dump station.
There are, admittedly, millions of RV accessories and gadgets out there—many of which are pretty fantastic. All the choices can become overwhelming, we know. So, we’ve whittled it down to the top 10 that hit the sweet spot between affordability and usefulness. A few are pretty darn cool, too.
1) RVGUARD 50-Amp RV Surge Protector:
Surge protectors may not be the most exciting thing to shop for, but boy, are they essential—kind of like a quiet bodyguard standing strong in the background. They stand between your rig and unpredictable power surges, preventing dangerous voltage spikes from frying your electronics, leaving you without power, or possibly starting a fire.
Why They’re Essential: Power problems happen way more than many of us know—especially at older campgrounds that haven’t always kept up on updated wiring. A good surge protector is a wise investment that can save you from costly repairs, ruined appliances, and shortened trips—or worse. This one is highly recommended as it’s easy to use and read, weather-resistant, and lets you know in advance if there are any issues with the outlet. So, you can relax and enjoy your trip knowing you’re well protected.
2) Camco RhinoFLEX 15’ Sewer Hose Kit
Dumping sewage tanks is no one’s favorite chore. We know. Still, it’s just one of those things you have to take care of. The RhinoFlex is known for being well-built due to its crush-resistant design and see-through elbow (so you know when the job is complete before undoing the hose!) Plus, it comes with a 4-in-1 adaptor, so it will fit with a range of dump-station fittings. Finally, it collapses down for compact storage when you’re not taking care of business.
Why It’s Essential: Having a good, dependable hose makes this unpleasant task faster, cleaner, and less stressful. What’s more, this hose has a reputation for its high quality and being able to do the job season after season—without leaks. So, you can get ‘er done and get back to your adventures.
3) Fenix CL20R USB-Rechargeable Lantern
We can’t be the only ones who occasionally pull into the campsite a little later than planned… or who just need a little extra light when preparing for an evening around the campfire. Fortunately, with these compact, rechargeable lanterns, you can get up to 300 lumens of either bright light or gentle red to help light the way, or just set the mood. Because they’re magnetic, they can be hung up just about anywhere. Plus, they’re easy to charge via USB. Thus, they’re a perfect solution for those of us who don’t want to be left in the dark or tripping when settling in for the night if the power’s out. It also has adjustable settings, providing the right amount of light whether you’re setting up camp or looking to illuminate after-dark hangouts.
Why It’s Essential: A reliable light source is non-negotiable when traveling. This one works well as it’s so compact (it’s easy to stow), is good inside as well as out, and you don’t need an extra drawer to store extra batteries. Just plug it in.
4) Camco 40055 Brass Water Pressure Regulator
When you first start RVing, you may think all you need to do is attach your rig to water and go. Unfortunately, not all water pressure is safe for your RV. A little too much could blow your entire system—bursting hoses, damaging appliances, and causing hard-to-reach leaks you don’t want to deal with anytime, but especially mid-trip. That’s where this small but mighty little gadget comes in. It easily connects to your fresh water inlet with standard hose threads to keep campground water pressure at a safe level (i.e., 40 – 50 psi).
Why It’s Essential: This affordable tool may not look like much, but it’s one that prevents a lot of drama—quietly but effectively. So, you can quickly hook up without worry and enjoy safe water pressure. Because it’s made from durable brass, it’s designed to withstand the rigors of life on the road while working in the background to protect your valuable equipment and even help it last longer.
5) Swivel-Spout Collapsible Dish Drainer
Who doesn’t love a space-saving gadget that makes dinner (or breakfast) clean up just a little easier? This space-saving rack folds flat when it’s not in use and drains right into the sink with a smart swivel spout. Plus, it has perfectly sized spots for your plates, cups, utensils, and even wine glasses. And its sturdy construction means it will last trip after trip.
Why It’s Essential: Space is prime real estate in any RV—especially in the kitchen! And you don’t want to fill up your counters so much that you can’t do anything else until they’re dry and put away. Sure, you could spread towels everywhere. But this little space-saving device is a simpler, more compact way to manage dishes.
6) Solar RV Porch Light
Lighting is important, especially if you want to check out bumps in the night. Because it’s wireless, this little porch light is easy to install (with three different methods) and stable—even without drilling. It can stand up to harsh weather conditions while continuing to illuminate your outdoor space with powerful LEDs that charge by day and light automatically at dusk. Alternatively, it offers various settings and includes motion sensors, so it won’t stay on all night.
Why It’s Essential: This small but powerful porchlight makes getting in and out of your rig after dark safer and more welcoming—without burning through your battery. It’s great for boondocking or just pulling into the campsite after dark.
7) Camco FasTen Leveling Blocks
We proudly come from a Lego family! So many hours of fun putting blocks together in endless combinations. Well, these useful blocks feel a bit like giant, heavy-duty, brightly colored Legos. They can be stacked into the necessary height, snapped together for easy storage, and even come with a handy carrying handle.
Why They’re Essential: Ever tried to cook in an RV that’s so sloped your eggs keep shifting to one side of the pan? Or wake up after a night when your head has been facing downhill the whole time. Not good. At all. A level RV isn’t just about staying comfortable at camp. It also keeps your appliances running well and ensures your water is flowing properly. These blocks make it easy to get perfectly level, even if your site is on the downslope.
8) Auto Drive RV Outdoor Patio Mat
Keeping dirt, grime, and travel dust out of your RV is essential. Lay out this reversible, weather-resistant rug when you arrive to transform the space outside of your RV into a welcoming outdoor living room. And when you’re ready to hit the road home, take a few seconds to sweep it down (or hose it off if needed), fold it up, and easily store it.
Why It’s Essential: Please do not track mud, sand, or unmentionables into the RV! This mat offers a clean zone right at your doorstep for a homier campsite. Better yet, add in your favorite camp chair, a lantern or two (see above), and create a sweet area to lounge in the great outdoors with your favorite beverage and companions.
9) Eva-Dry E-333 Mini-Dehumidifier
Moisture is a silent enemy of RVs. This pint-sized cordless moisture buster quietly pulls up to six ounces of dampness (and odor) out of the air with the power of silica gel beads. No need for wires or batteries. Just plug it in to recharge after 20 to 30 days to renew the beads.
Why It’s Essential: Moisture can sneak in during rainy days, when enjoying warm showers (even short ones), or when parked in more humid climates. Over time, this can lead to musty smells, mildew, and mold, damaging your home on wheels. This little gem helps keep everything fresh—even if you’re ocean- or lakeside.
10) Magzo Custom Magnetic Screen Door
Our home is also home to three dogs, and during the spring, summer, and fall, they’re racing through the doors more than we’d like to admit (at least the younger two). Since we picked up our first magnetic screen door a few years ago, it’s been a game-changer. It’s also super convenient for going in and out hands-free, which is super helpful when dining outdoors. So, of course, we found it makes just as much sense with the RV. The tailor-made mesh door clicks shut behind you due to the strong magnets. Whether you’re carrying a hot cup of coffee, a fun family game, or dinner, it opens easily and then seals behind you instantly to keep pests out of your interior space. No need to elbow, knee, or kick the screen door out of the way, potentially twisting or falling in the process.
Why It’s Essential: Especially in warmer months, airflow is vital. Yes, you can open up the windows, but a wide-open door allows fresh breezes to sweep through. While we want the air, we could absolutely do without the flies, mosquitoes, and other uninvited guests (especially those that bite!). And a hands-free option is especially useful when RVing. This simple and affordable screen door does the trick!
RV Must-Haves Under $100
So, there you have it. Our top ten most essential, affordable champions to make your camping experience just a little better. They’re not all flashy, though some are bright. But they’re the kind of gear that quietly earns its keep every trip.
Of course, every RVer has their own secret weapons—those can’t-live-without items that always make the packing list. So, tell us, what’s your budget-friendly MVP? You may just inspire someone else’s next campsite upgrade—or a future update with the top 20 must-haves for RVs. 🧡