10 RV Essentials Every New Owner Needs (Beginner Checklist)

If you're brand‑new to the RV world, welcome — you're about to enter one of the most rewarding lifestyles out there. And hey, speaking as someone who likes things simple, practical, and stress‑free… nothing keeps an RV trip smoother than having the right gear from day one. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that a few essentials make all the difference between a relaxed getaway and a “why didn’t anyone warn me?” situation.

Let’s dive into the 10 RV essentials every new owner needs. If you get nothing else for your RV, get the things on this list. These items will save you time, money, frustration, and honestly, a few headaches.

1. A Quality Sewer Hose (and the Attachments That Keep You Clean)

Let’s start with the one thing every RV owner eventually learns: sewer hoses matter. A cheap hose will betray you every time. Spend a little more now, save yourself a messy disaster later. A strong, 20‑foot hose with a clear elbow adapter is your new best friend. That clear elbow? It’s not for entertainment — it just lets you see when the line is running clean so you know when you’re good to close the valve.

You'll also want:

• A proper sewer donut for campground hookups 

• A sewer support cradle (keeps everything flowing downhill) 

• Gloves — trust me, just do it 

Why this matters: A reliable hose prevents leaks, odors, and stress — and makes dumping a quick, clean process instead of a dreaded chore.

2. Fresh Water Hose (Drinking Water Safe)

There are two types of RV water hoses: the cheap ones… and the right ones. You want a certified potable-water hose (usually white or blue) made specifically for drinking water. Don’t grab the green garden hose you use to wash the truck — they leach chemicals and taste awful.

Also grab a spare hose while you’re at it. Campgrounds vary, and sometimes the spigot is farther away than you expect.

Bonus essentials:

• A quick‑connect fitting 

• A shut‑off valve 

• A spare rubber washer pack 

Why you need this: Clean water that doesn’t taste like plastic or hose rubber is a small luxury that goes a long way.

3. Water Pressure Regulator (So You Don’t Blow Your Lines)

Campground water pressure is unpredictable. Some places barely trickle, and others blast your RV plumbing like a fire hydrant. A water pressure regulator stops high pressure from damaging your pipes, fittings, and water heater.

Go for an adjustable regulator with a gauge. This lets you set your preferred PSI (typically 45–55 PSI) and know exactly what’s going into your rig.

Think of it like insurance — cheap, simple, and worth every penny.

4. Surge Protector (Protect Your RV Electronics)

Campground electrical pedestals are… well, let’s call them “character‑building.” They’re old, inconsistent, and sometimes wired by someone who probably should’ve retired from electrical work in 1983.

An RV surge protector protects your air conditioner, microwave, refrigerator, inverter, and everything else plugged into your rig.

Make sure you choose: 

• 30‑amp model for smaller RVs 

• 50‑amp model for larger rigs 

Smart surge protectors can even warn you of bad wiring before you hook up — which can save you from very expensive electrical repairs.

5. Wheel Chocks and Leveling Blocks

One of the first things new RV owners notice: RVs rarely sit on perfectly level ground. If you want your fridge to run correctly, your shower to drain, and your cabinets not to swing open by themselves, you need leveling blocks.

Wheel chocks keep your RV from shifting or rolling when you unhitch or park. Go with the heavy-duty rubber ones — they grip better and don’t slide.

Leveling essentials include:

• Stackable leveling blocks 

• A bubble level (or a smartphone leveling app) 

• A little patience — leveling isn't glamorous, but it matters 

Once you’ve leveled your RV a few times, you’ll feel like a pro.

6. RV Surge‑Friendly Extension Cord

An RV‑rated extension cord is different from the orange backyard extension cord you use with power tools. RV cords are thicker, safer, and built to handle the constant voltage needed for your AC unit and appliances.

Choose:

• A 30‑amp or 50‑amp RV‑rated cord 

• A heavy-duty cord with solid ends 

• A weather-resistant option 

Pair this with a dogbone adapter (for plugging into different pedestal styles), and you’ll be ready for nearly any power situation.

7. RV Tool Kit (The “Every Trip Fix-It Kit”)

Believe me — something always needs tightening, adjusting, or repairing. A simple RV tool kit will save your trip more times than you can count.

Your kit should include:

• Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips) 

• Adjustable wrench 

• Socket set 

• Rubber mallet 

• Zip ties 

• Utility knife 

• Electrical tape 

• Fuses for your RV panel 

• Tire pressure gauge 

This is one of those essentials you won’t think about until something goes sideways — and then you'll be grateful you have it.

8. RV Water Filter (Protects Your Tank and Your Taste Buds)

No two campgrounds have the same water quality. Some are great… others taste like rusty garden metal. A simple inline water filter keeps sediment, bad taste, and who‑knows‑what out of your RV tank and pipes.

You can choose:

• Basic inline filter (cheap and works fine) 

• Canister-style filter (more filtration, longer life) 

If you want clean water for drinking, coffee, and cooking, don’t skip this one.

9. First Aid Kit (A Real One, Not the Dollar Store Version)

 You’re outdoors, you’re traveling, you’re hooking up hoses, and you’re climbing in and out of the RV — stuff happens. A proper first aid kit is a safety essential.

Your kit should include:

• Bandages (all sizes) 

• Gauze and tape 

• Tweezers 

• Pain relievers 

• Antiseptic wipes 

• Burn gel 

• Allergy meds 

• A small cold pack 

This isn’t just “RV gear” — it’s peace of mind. You’ll be glad you packed it when the unexpected occurs.

10. RV-Specific GPS or Navigation App

RV travel isn’t like driving a car. There are low bridges, weight limits, sharp switchbacks, and tight roads that were never meant for big rigs.

An RV-specific GPS lets you set your vehicle height, weight, and length so you avoid roads that could get you into trouble.

Good options:

• Garmin RV GPS 

• RV Life app | RV Safe GPS 

• CoPilot RV 

• Even Google Maps if you’re careful — but it’s not RV‑specific 

A GPS removes guesswork and keeps you on safe, RV‑friendly routes — something every new RVer needs.

Bonus Essentials New RV Owners Always Appreciate

Let’s throw in a few extras that aren’t mandatory, but man… they sure make life easier:

• Folding outdoor mat 

• Water tank flush attachment 

• Portable air compressor 

• Camping chairs 

• Extra fuses 

• Spare bulbs 

• A set of RV‑safe toilet chemicals 

• A small broom or cordless handheld vacuum 

These extras help your RV feel cleaner, more organized, and more comfortable during every trip.

Final Thoughts: Start Simple, Build as You Go

One thing I always tell new RV travelers — don’t panic-buy everything under the sun. Start with the essentials on this list. These are the things you’ll use on every single trip, whether you’re camping for one night or staying out for a month.

Over time, you’ll pick up more gear that suits your style of RVing. Everyone travels differently — some like parks with hookups, others prefer boondocking in quiet spots. But no matter what kind of RVer you become, these 10 essentials form the foundation of a trouble‑free RV experience.

And trust me… once you get these dialed in, your trips start feeling a whole lot smoother.

Safe travels, enjoy the journey, and welcome to the RV life. You're going to love it.