A motorhome offers the unique freedom to explore the world while carrying the comforts of home with you. However, the transition from a traditional house to a mobile living space requires specific tools and gear to ensure everything runs smoothly. The right motorhome accessories can improve your safety on the road, maximize your storage space, and make your campsite setup much faster.
When choosing accessories, it is important to prioritize items that serve multiple purposes or solve common travel challenges. This guide categorizes the most helpful motorhome accessories into utility, interior comfort, outdoor living, and maintenance to help you prepare for your next adventure.
Essential Utility and Safety Accessories
Before focusing on comfort, you must ensure your motorhome is equipped with the necessary tools for basic operation and safety. These items are often considered the “must-haves” for any owner, especially those new to the lifestyle.
Leveling Blocks and Chocks
Most campsites are not perfectly flat. Leveling blocks are sturdy plastic or rubber ramps that you drive your wheels onto to level the vehicle. This is not just for comfort; many motorhome refrigerators must be level to operate correctly. Wheel chocks are equally important, as they prevent the vehicle from rolling once you have parked.
Surge Protectors and Electrical Adapters
Connecting your motorhome to a campsite’s power pedestal can be risky if there are power surges or faulty wiring. A high-quality surge protector acts as a buffer, protecting your expensive onboard electronics from damage. Additionally, carry a set of electrical adapters (often called “dogbones”) so you can connect a 30-amp motorhome to a 50-amp outlet, or vice versa.
Water Pressure Regulators and Hoses
Campsite water pressure can vary significantly and is sometimes high enough to burst the internal plumbing of a motorhome. A water pressure regulator attaches to the tap to keep the flow at a safe level. You should also use a dedicated drinking water hose, which is typically white and made of food-grade materials that do not leach chemicals into your water supply.
Interior Organization and Comfort
Space is at a premium inside a motorhome. Choosing accessories that help you organize and maximize every square inch will make the living area feel much larger and more functional.
Collapsible Kitchenware
Kitchen storage is often the most difficult area to manage. Look for collapsible bowls, measuring cups, and even kettles made from heat-resistant silicone. These items perform just as well as standard kitchenware but fold flat to take up minimal drawer or cupboard space.
Non-Slip Liners and Tension Rods
Items inside a motorhome tend to shift during transit. Placing non-slip rubber liners in your cabinets prevents plates and cups from sliding around. Small tension rods can be placed across refrigerator shelves or pantry cabinets to hold items in place, ensuring they do not fall out when you open the door after a long drive.
Mattress Toppers and Blackout Curtains
Standard motorhome mattresses are often thin to save weight. Adding a memory foam mattress topper can significantly improve your sleep quality. Similarly, blackout curtains or thermal window covers help block out light from streetlamps and regulate the interior temperature by providing an extra layer of insulation.
Outdoor Living Accessories
One of the main benefits of motorhome travel is spending time outdoors. These accessories help you create a comfortable “patio” area right outside your door.
Outdoor Mats and Rugs
A large, breathable outdoor mat serves two purposes. It creates a clean area for you to sit and relax, and it helps prevent dirt, sand, and grass from being tracked into the motorhome. Look for mats made of woven polypropylene, as they are lightweight, easy to clean, and do not kill the grass underneath.
Portable Grills and Folding Tables
While many motorhomes have indoor stoves, cooking outside keeps the interior cool and free of food odors. A compact, portable propane grill is a popular choice for quick meals. If your campsite doesn’t have a picnic table, a lightweight aluminum folding table provides a stable surface for dining or food preparation.
High-Quality Camping Chairs
Invest in chairs that are both comfortable and durable. Since they will likely be moved frequently, look for models that fold easily and include a carrying bag. Features like built-in cup holders or side tables add extra convenience for long afternoons outside.
Technology and Navigation Tools
Modern technology can take much of the stress out of navigating a large vehicle and staying connected while in remote areas.
RV-Specific GPS Units
Standard car GPS systems or smartphone apps may not account for the height and weight of a motorhome. An RV-specific GPS allows you to enter your vehicle’s dimensions. The device will then plan routes that avoid low bridges, narrow roads, or steep grades that might be dangerous for a large vehicle.
Wi-Fi Boosters and Cell Signal Amplifiers
If you need to work from the road or enjoy streaming entertainment, a Wi-Fi booster can help you catch a stronger signal from distant campsite routers. In areas with poor cellular service, a signal amplifier (or booster) can turn a weak signal into a usable one for your smartphone or hotspot.
Backup and Side-View Cameras
Maneuvering a large motorhome into a tight campsite can be challenging. If your vehicle did not come with a backup camera, aftermarket kits are available. Some systems also include side-view cameras that activate with your turn signals, significantly reducing blind spots on the highway.
Maintenance and Waste Management
Proper maintenance ensures your motorhome remains in good condition for years. This includes managing the waste systems correctly, which is a vital part of the motorhome experience.
Sewer Hose Kits and Clear Elbows
A high-quality, heavy-duty sewer hose is essential for emptying your waste tanks. A “clear elbow” attachment is a helpful accessory that allows you to see when the tank is fully rinsed and the water is running clear. This ensures your tanks are properly cleaned, preventing odors and sensor malfunctions.
Tank Treatments
To break down waste and control odors in the “black tank” (the waste tank for the toilet), you must use specialized tank treatments. These come in liquid or drop-in pod forms and contain enzymes or chemicals designed to keep the system functioning smoothly.
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
Tire health is critical for motorhome safety. A TPMS consists of sensors that screw onto your tire valves and a display inside the cab. It provides real-time information on tire pressure and temperature, alerting you to potential leaks or overheating before they lead to a dangerous blowout.
How to Prioritize Your Purchases
If you are a new motorhome owner, it can be tempting to buy everything at once. However, it is often better to start with the essentials and add more as you discover your specific needs. Follow these steps to build your kit:
- Start with Safety: Purchase your surge protector, water pressure regulator, and leveling blocks first.
- Focus on Utility: Get your hoses, power adapters, and basic tool kit ready for your first trip.
- Observe Your Habits: After your first weekend away, take note of what was missing. Did you struggle with storage? Was the bed uncomfortable?
- Buy for Quality: It is often cheaper in the long run to buy one high-quality accessory than to replace a cheap one that breaks after a few uses.
Conclusion
Equipping your motorhome with the right accessories is a practical way to ensure your trips are safe, organized, and enjoyable. By focusing on essential utilities first and gradually adding comfort and technology items, you can create a personalized travel experience that fits your lifestyle. For more tips on vehicle maintenance and travel preparation, explore our other guides on road trip safety and home organization.