RV Gear and Upgrades
RV Refrigerator Guide: Absorption vs 12V Compressor vs Residential
How absorption, 12-volt compressor and residential RV refrigerators compare on power, off-grid use, leveling and upgrades, with a checklist for choosing one.
RV Gear and Upgrades
RV gear and upgrades worth buying: surge protectors, leveling blocks, TPMS, covers, mattresses, hitches and more, with honest buying checklists.
About this topic
The right gear makes RV life safer and easier, and the wrong gear wastes money and space. These guides explain what each piece of equipment does, how to size it and what to check before you buy.
Buy hookup, leveling and safety gear first, then upgrade comfort and power once you know how you camp.
Where to start
- RV surge protector: protect your electrical system
- RV leveling blocks: level safely at every site
- RV TPMS: catch tire problems early
Free tools for this topic
Common questions
What gear do I need first?
A surge protector, drinking-water hose, pressure regulator, leveling blocks, chocks and working detectors cover the essentials.
Are expensive brands worth it?
Sometimes. Compare specifications against your own numbers with our free calculators before you pay more.
RV Gear and Upgrades
RV Gear and Upgrades
RV Water Filter Guide: Types, Certifications, and Setup at the Hookup
How to choose an RV water filter: what inline, canister, reverse osmosis and UV systems do, how to read certifications, and how to set up your hookup.
RV Gear and Upgrades
RV Water Heater Repair: Troubleshooting Gas, Electric, Smells, and Leaks
Safe, step-by-step RV water heater repair: what to check when there is no hot water on gas or electric, how to fix rotten-egg smells, and when to call a technician.