Essential Tools for RVers to Take on a Trip

Embarking on an RV trip can be an exciting adventure, offering the freedom to explore new places at your own pace. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it's crucial to pack the right tools. There are some factors you should consider such as mechanical ability, weight and space for tool storage.

You might be thinking “I don’t know how to fix anything.” Well, if you travel much in an RV, you will learn. There are also lots of people who may recognize your troubles and offer a helping hand – and they need tools to help.

We have traveled with everything from a popup trailer, a 24 ft Travel Trailer, a Class C and finally a Class A. My tool set has change significantly over time. I started out with way too many tools, including some power tools (I do the occasional wood project). Now I carry a pretty complete set of hand tools and a medium sized drill as my only power tool. I recently made a cabinet, while on a trip, for our Class A with just the tools I carry.

· Multi-tool: I carry a good quality multi-tool on my belt. Nary a day goes by that I don’t pull that out and use it. Along with that, I keep a folding knife clipped on my pants pocket and a pen knife in my pocket (it has a blade, screwdriver/file and scissors blade.)

· A ratcheting multi-bit screwdriver: I also carry a regular straight slot and Philips screwdrivers, but for many jobs I can just grab the multi-bit driver which I keep handy near my main door. Add to that a set of small screwdrivers for various appliances and battery doors.

· Socket and Wrench Set (3/8ths drive): Essential for nuts and bolts. Unfortunately, RVs often come with a mix of Metric and Imperial sizes. If you must minimize weight, get one set with six-point sockets – you can often make do. Make sure you have a good ratchet and a couple of extensions of different length. I also carry a ¼ drive socket set. It isn’t all that big or heavy and does come in useful.

· Regular and adjustable pliers, plus a locking plier. An adjustable wrench and small hammer.

· A mini hack saw blade holder. Since I do the occasional wood-working, I pack a good quality but smaller cross-cut saw, sandpaper and a small plane. Those would be optional for most people.

· A basic multi-function electrical meter and a non-contact voltage tester. Spend some time on Youtube learning to use them. They can save hours of frustration and money diagnosing troubles.

· Heavy-duty Tape (gorilla type): Useful for quick fixes of leaks or securing loose items. Perhaps a lighter duct style tape as well. Electrical tape for wires and Teflon tape for plumbing joints.

· Silicone caulk: Self-leveling caulk for the roof.

· Jumper Cables: A must-have for battery issues on the road. Get a longer set – 15 ft minimum as you can’t always jockey for a jump, especially with a trailer connected.

· Tire Pressure Gauge: Regularly check tire pressure to avoid blowouts and ensure optimal performance. TPMS is better.

· Portable Air Compressor: Convenient for inflating tires and other inflatable items. At a minimum, carry one of those emergency inflation cans. A tire plug kit is also a good idea.

· Flashlight and Batteries: Essential for nighttime repairs or emergencies. I’m going to expound a bit on this one. I buy flashlights from Amazon designed for three AAA batteries – but they also work with 18650 lithium rechargeable batteries. You can pick up a few extra batteries and charger. They last longer and are brighter than the AAA batteries. I keep two flashlights by our exit door (dog walks), one each place I store tools including in the truck.

· Tool roll and tool bag. I keep my most often used tools in a tool roll. I flop it open and everything is visible. Less used tools I keep in several tool bags with luggage labels on them. (I might remember the bag that has the electrical meters in it, but if I send the wife or helper to get it, they don’t.)

· Hardware: Get a plastic box with dividers or drawers to store bolts, screws, nuts, washers and bits of RV hardware. Need a bolt, buy a pack of 5 or 10 and store the extras for next time. If you have a supply of these at home, grab an assortment for your box before you leave. And make sure you have some fuses that match what is in your RV and your car/truck as well as some crimp connectors and a proper crimp tool. One of the most common failures in RV’s is wire crimps falling off.

· First Aid Kit: A comprehensive kit to handle minor injuries and medical emergencies.

· Fire Extinguisher: Cars and RVs are quite flammable. Extinguishers need to be easily accessible. Options to consider: I keep a fire blanket mounted to the inside of a cabinet door in the kitchen plus a “no residue” extinguisher next to it for stove fires. I have an extra extinguisher under the entrance step (where tools are kept) and another mounted inside a drawer in the bedroom and one mounted easily accessible in the truck.

· Roadside Emergency Kit: Includes warning triangles, flares, and reflective vests to ensure safety during breakdowns.

· Emergency Radio: Stay informed about weather conditions and emergency broadcasts. While your phone can do this, it can only if there is a cell tower.

· Water Purification System: Ensure access to clean drinking water in case of emergencies. We keep some basic bugout emergency supplies including a Life-Straw in the truck.

· Radios – we tried CB and gave up. Phones don’t always work so we moved on to GMRS. The license is simple and inexpensive. We have a dash mounted radio in the Class A and our pickup truck as well as two better quality handheld radios which come in handy when setting up, tearing down and moving the RV. They also come in handy when caravanning with other RVers.

· Roadside Assistance Plan. Most RVs don’t come with a jack. Some, like most Class A motorhomes don’t come with spares. Search reviews and consider getting a Roadside Assistance Plan. None of the plans are prefect, but often they can get you out of a bind.

· Portable Generator: Provides power for electronics and appliances when off-grid. Get a quiet inverter-generator, not an open frame construction gen that is terribly noisy.

· Solar Panels: An eco-friendly way to generate electricity for your RV.

· Lithium Batteries – way more storage capacity for the weight, but not a drop-in replacement. They are expensive and can require other equipment changes to work properly.

· Leveling Blocks: Ensure your RV is level for a comfortable living experience.

· Retractable Clothesline: Handy for drying clothes and towels. Check your campground rules though.

· Camping Chairs and Table: Comfortable seating for outdoor relaxation.

· GPS Navigation System: Helps you stay on course and find points of interest. If you can, choose one that understands the limitations of your RV if possible (weight, height)

· Portable Vacuum Cleaner: Keeps your RV clean and tidy. A basic broom and dustpan can work on floors, but a broom style vacuum is easier.

· Cleaning Supplies: Stock up on detergents, sponges, and cloths for regular cleaning. Hand towel for wiping off dog paws.

· Sewer Hose and Attachments: Properly dispose of waste and keep your RV's plumbing in good condition. Disposable gloves for handling the sewer hose.

· Potable Water Hose and Filter: Essential for providing clean water and maintaining your RV's water system.

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