Patio Mats, Water Softeners and More: Useful Accessories and Tools for Your RV

There are so many different types of accessories and tools that you might want to consider bringing along on the road that there is no way to neatly summarize them. Look up “camper supplies” on Google and you’re going to come across lists that come close to housing a hundred entries. Some of them probably have more.

That’s partly because an RV, like a home, needs a lot of tools and accessories to keep everything running smoothly. The difference is that an RV is often out on the road where supplies can’t easily be replenished, and therefore there are some things that should be brought along as a safeguard.

Then again, not everything on this list is a tool or meant to be kept as a redundant safety measure. Some of them will maintain your RV over time, whereas others will simply allow you to more fully enjoy your time on the road. Check out some of these accessories that you would do well to bring on the road with you, and if you have any questions, you can always get in touch with us. 

Patio Mats and Awning Mats 

Awning and patio mats are great for bringing along on your trips for a number of great reasons. Not only will they simplify keeping things clean and enhance your comfort by keeping you off of the ground, but they will spruce up a space as well.

However, some of the greatest advantages of RV patio mats and awning mats come from their utility and not their aesthetics. Consider models like the Faulkner Reversible RV Patio Mats and Camco Reversible Awning Leisure Mats. Among these models, you can enjoy a suite of features that make them tough, comfortable as well as great at keeping dirt out from the inside of your RV.

Both of these mats and others have woven designs that allow snow and rain to drain right through them, helping to keep you off of the ground as well. They’re also very light and mold and mildew resistant. They can be folded up tightly and stored out of the way until they are needed.

Even though they are resistant to mold and mildew, cleaning them is easy; both of them can be cleaned with soap and water and allowed to dry before storing; and they dry quickly. They also have grommets that make it easy to stake down the mats in areas where they might be pulled up or blown away. Many of them even have reversible sides and are treated specially so as to afford a measure of UV protection to prevent sun damage.

One more thing to keep in mind is that some mats don’t just help you by keeping dirt out of the RV by clearing it off of the bottoms of your shoes. Some of them allow dirt, sand, grass, and debris to filter through one way but not come up through the bottom. This streamlines maintenance while enhancing your comfort as well. 

Generators and Solar Panels 

Think about your time out on the road in your RV. There are a lot of appliances in your RV that require power to use, and while you can disconnect from power from time to time and simply enjoy the great outdoors, there is still a lot in a motorhome that requires power to operate.

Some RVs can connect to a power supply in camp, for which purpose they would need to be well equipped with a heavy-duty power cable so that you could connect to power when you were parked in camp. With one of these, you can enjoy all of the creature comforts that your RV was intended to provide you with even when you were away from home.

However, for those times when you really go off the grid, even if you are in a formal “campsite” without power, there are still some occasions when you would like the peace of mind to produce some. There are a few ways to go about this, and two of the best are with the help of solar panels or with generators.

It’s not all about convenience, though. It’s a good idea to keep one of these systems around just in the event of an emergency. You might not actively have a need to use power, but knowing that you have the option should you need it will give you the ability to rest easy, even when you are out in the woods.

Water Softeners

Water softeners are systems that really can be worth a lot to a camper, although, depending on where you live, they can be worth a lot in your home as well. For example, it’s fairly well known that a water softening system in a home with hard water can improve the taste, smell, look, and even feel of the water. Those who have showered with hard water will know that particularly hard water will leave their skin and hair feeling odd, for lack of a better term.

However, there is more to the value of a water softener than removing an undesirable smell or taste. A water softening system to remove minerals from the water will preserve your appliances, fixtures, and plumbing and even can prevent costly repairs.

Because RVs are constantly on the move and much of the country is plagued by hard water, it can be tough to predict just when and where an RV will hook up to a hard water source. Over time, hard water will cause scale buildup in your fixtures that will diminish the flow rate, cause ugly streaks on your appliances, and can cause damage too.

Meanwhile, you could just invest in an affordable water softening system for your RV in order to easily, conveniently, and passively prevent all of this. Many of them are easy and simple to hook up and need to be resupplied with resin only infrequently. 

LED Lights 

We’re not going to get into the specifics of what lights you can and can’t replace in your RV with LEDs, or how exactly you can do it. There are some retrofit LED light kits out there that make it possible for you to switch out incandescent and halogen fixtures for LEDs, but that is neither here nor there. This is simply about the value of light, and based on the fact that we have included flashlights in lists of critical RV accessories in the past, you accept that light is important.

On that note, then, the value of LED lights is that they are reliable, last for a very long time, and also draw almost no power. Let’s break this down a little further; if you are able to incorporate LED lights into your RV, you should do it.

LEDs significantly outlast all other forms of lighting, even forms of lighting like fluorescent lights that are renowned for their long lifespans. LEDs are also tough, resistant to changes in moisture and temperature, and light up instantly. Finally, as if you needed another bonus, LED lights draw very little power compared to any other light source, and will not tax an electrical system.

Check out our collection of LED lights via the link above to learn more about some product specifics, and if you have any questions, give our team a call.  

Leveling Blocks

Leveling blocks are also pretty important RV accessories that you should probably have on hand, especially if your RV does not have a leveling system. Leveling blocks are designed to give you a steady, level surface, even on uneven ground.

This is another thing that has more to do with function than it has to do with comfort. Sure, you’ll enjoy your trip more if your RV isn’t slanted up a slope, but there’s more going on here.

If your RV is slanted for any extended length of time, it will put a huge amount of strain on the frame on the structure and it can also negatively impact the tires. In addition, if your RV has an absorption refrigerator, it is imperative that you only operate it on a level surface. If you don’t it will suffer irreparable damage and you will need to replace the refrigeration unit.

Leveling blocks are only one way you can level your RV, but there are a lot of situations in which they can come in handy. Check out our collection and call us if you have questions on use or product features. 

Dish Cleaning Essentials 

Most if not all RVs have a kitchen, and most if not all people enjoy at least one nice meal a day, even when on the road or in camp. The thing is, if you do cook, there’s going to be clean up, and clean up does not perform itself.

That means you will need to be prepared with rags and soap and preferably a place to keep drying dishes as well as a trash can for all of the waste. At the same time, it can be useful to have a pop up trashcan of sorts so that you have a place for trash you create when you’re on the go, especially if you are outside of your camper and in a camp kitchen.

It’s not that these types of things are specialty items, but be sure you are prepared with them before you hit the road since you might not be able to come by them on your way.

A Grill 

We don’t care whether you love gas or charcoal, speaking of cooking, you’ll want the chance to get outside from time to time, weather permitting. A grill will give you the chance to do some cooking out there in camp without the need to rely on your camper kitchen. Check out some of our models in our store and pick out one that works for you, even if it's just a little portable model. 

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Another system that doesn’t get a lot of press time is a tire pressure monitoring system, but it’s one that you need to have. There are different types of TPMS units and sensors, but the point is that one is critical not only to the performance of your RV but to your safety as well.

We don’t have a lot of space in this article to go over the specifics of a given unit, and pages could be written on how they work and why they are important. What you need to know is that a TPMS will protect you against blowouts, alert you to high or low pressure in your tires, improve the handling and braking of your RV, and improve your gas mileage.

If you need more specific information, consult our blog on the importance of a TPMS, or read up on the products themselves; they are worth every penny.

Jump Starter 

Another thing you should carry with you in your RV (and really in any vehicle) is a set of jumper cables that are adequate to jump your vehicle. Even more useful than a set of cables is a jump starter itself. Some models can be used to charge batteries and some are powerful enough to jump an engine even when the battery is dead. This will, of course, vary by the power and capacity of a given jump starter, but if you’re ever in the woods with a dead battery, you’ll be glad you brought it.

Tools

We’re not going to tell you what specific tools you need to bring with you, but if you can spare a little space for a toolset or a tool chest or a toolbox (you can) then you should carve out the room and add one in. There’s no telling what will come up during any given trip, and without the right tools to address it, you’ll be on your own. Any tools are better than none, so let experience dictate your selection.

As you will notice if you spend more than two minutes investigating our collection of goods online, there are tons and tons of RV essentials here in our online store. This is just a small jumping-off point, and there are plenty of other accessories you’ll want to bring on the road with you. Read our blog for more suggestions, and if you want to talk to a human about it, give us a call at 866-332-7881.

Repair Leaks and Seams with RV Roof Tape

One factor of maintaining your RV that may get overlooked is the roof. Because it is not easily visible, you may not think to check on it as much as other parts, however, doing so can prevent dealing with potential water damage further down the line.

As you take your RV along with you on your travels, your vehicle will endure various conditions that may take a toll on its roof. If you want to monitor whether or not your roof has endured any damage over time, it will be useful to periodically check on it throughout the year.

If for any reason your RV’s roof has been damaged or punctured, there’s no need to worry as we have the products available on our website to fix it. One of the products that we carry on our website is RV roof tape, a product that can be used for RV roof repair.

RV roof tape works simply but can have a large impact on the condition of your recreational vehicle. First, you must make sure to thoroughly clean your RV roof to make sure that you get rid of any excess moisture, grease, or oil on the surface.

Once you’ve done so, you can go ahead and apply the tape over the area you are repairing. The tape will then bond to the area, tightly sealing the crack or crevice to prevent any further damage.

There are a few things you’ll want to consider when purchasing RV roof tape. One thing to keep in mind is that there are many different roof types that exist. When you purchase tape, you need to ensure that the tape is compatible with the roof your RV has.

For instance, some motor homes or RVs have rubber roofs, aluminum, fiberglass, steel, and more. Not all forms of RV roof tape will be able to accommodate the type of roof your RV has, therefore, you’ll want to carefully review your options to find the one that works best for you.

If you shop from our selection of RV roof tape on our website, you’ll notice that we have a lot of options available from different brands. If you are new and are looking for something that is highly favored and preferred by many of our customers, you may want to consider Eternabond products.

Eternabond is a brand known for its repair products that fix roofs of all different types. Some of the factors that make their products so notable are that they are durable, versatile, and easy to use. If you don’t have plenty of experience repairing roofs, you won’t have to worry about enduring too much difficulty.

As for Eternabond roof seal tapes, we have plenty of options in stock to address leak repairs. If you’re looking for a product from our website that is highly rated and reviewed from our customers, consider taking a look at the Eternabond AS-4-25 AlumiBond 4” X ‘25 Repair Tape.

This option bonds to different surfaces aside from just roofs, making it a versatile choice. It can be used on different roof materials including carbon steel, aluminum, galvanized steel, aluminum foil, wood, rubber, tar, fiberglass, and more.

If you ever come across other parts of your RV that need a protective coating, other than your roof, you can use this product for that as well. Other materials that this tape can repair are drain pipes, ductwork, boats, canoes, and metal buildings.

Eternabond makes a great choice as it provides an air and watertight barrier to the surface you apply it to. It is also UV stable and can endure the harshest of weather conditions like weather as cold as -20 degrees.

There are so many qualities that make EternaBond tapes a great choice. At RVupgrades, we only provide our customers with the best products so they can enjoy their RV experience.

Our customer feedback means a lot to us, therefore, if there is a product they enjoy the most, we make sure to keep it around.

No matter what form of RV roof tape you choose to purchase from our website, you are guaranteed to have a great product in your hands. They are also easy to install so that anyone regardless of their repair experience can figure out how to use it.

At RVupgrades we welcome your feedback and are always happy to answer your questions. If you’d like to get in touch with us about any of our products, you can contact us at 1-866-332-7881. Our team is available during the week from 8 - 5 pm (EST time) to address any of our customers’ needs.

If you prefer to communicate with us via email, feel free to send us an email at sales@rvupgradestore.com for pre-product questions and information. For all post-order returns or product damage, please contact returns@rvupgradestore.com.

8 Useful RV Supplies You Should Consider Having At All Times

There are certain tools and accessories that you can’t afford to go without when you are out on the road in your RV if you want the best possible experience. Once you know you have everything essential, you still may want to consider a few other useful RV supplies for your trip, however.

Having the proper supplies as you are utilizing your RV can make or break a road trip or vacation. While you can certainly live without them, the quality of your outing may be dampened considerably without the right accessories on hand. While the idea of “roughing it” will always have a certain appeal, sometimes you simply want to have the right useful supplies on hand that will make your life easier and reduce hassle and stress.

With that being said, this guide will cover some of the more useful RV accessories and supplies that, while not essential, should still be given serious consideration if you want to make the most of your RV excursions. The quality of your time while using your RV can be greatly impacted by the supplies that are available to you or lack thereof. When certain situations arise, you want to be fully prepared so you can get back to enjoying yourself as quickly as possible.

A Reliable GPS
The first item you may want to consider having on hand at all times in your RV is a reliable GPS. You might be thinking why a GPS would even be necessary in this age of affordable smartphones equipped with Google Maps, but the truth is, there are several valid reasons why a dedicated GPS is better than a phone in this instance.

On a short drive, a smartphone certainly comes in handy if you simply need local directions, but if you have to rely on your phone for hours on end, it could drain the battery. This is especially true if you want to use your phone for anything else at the same time. A GPS is not a mobile device and can be easily plugged in, so there are no concerns over it possibly quitting on you.

Another important thing to consider is that depending on where you are driving, your phone could lose service completely. A high-quality GPS, while connected over the Internet, also stores data locally at all times. This means that even when you are in the middle of nowhere, you will still be able to find out where you are with ease, which is not always the case with cell phones.

A GPS simply provides a much more streamlined navigation experience. They are designed to be utilized by the driver, unlike a smartphone that should not be handled while you are on the road. Their displays are larger which means you won’t have to worry about squinting or fiddling with your phone’s pinch and zoom features just to get a good view of the map, and the device itself is large and accessible, with easy to use features and simple design. Your smartphone could be throwing annoying notifications while you are in the middle of trying to use the map, or you may even receive a call. They are convenient to a fault - in this instance and especially on long drives, your best bet is to stick with a dedicated GPS.


Folding Chairs and Tables
While there is certainly nothing wrong with staying inside your camper or RV to relax and get away from it all, part of the joys of adventuring and camping include spending time in the great outdoors, sitting around fires, grilling, or simply soaking up some sun.

Well, unless you want to find a log to sit on, you’re going to want to invest in some high-quality folding chairs and maybe even a table or two. When you are traveling, you may not always have the convenience of picnic tables and other luxuries. In these instances, if you want to enjoy the outdoors while you eat or if you simply want to sit and read a book under the sun, having the right adaptable camping furniture is a must.

Folding tables and chairs are convenient because they do not require that much room but offer a substantial amount of functionality.

The Right High-Quality Grill Accessories
No RV trip is complete without the right grilling equipment on hand. You could forgo the grill and simply perform your cooking tasks using what appliances you have inside your RV, but this takes away some of the charm and appeal of venturing around and spending time outdoors.

There are several key items here that you want to think about keeping with you in your RV. These would include the grill itself, propane if you are using a gas grill, forks and tongs, pans, tin foil, and anything else you need to cook up a good meal.

 
Here at RVupgrades, we offer a wide variety of different high-quality grills, including campfire grills and portable gas options. We also offer stainless steel smokers and charcoal grills as well, to meet the needs of every grill-lover. Grilling is such an important aspect of crafting an enriching outdoor trip so it’s important you come equipped with everything you need to cook ‘till your heart’s content.

RV Interior Cleaning Products
This is something that may go overlooked, but your RV needs to be thoroughly cleaned just like any space in your house, perhaps more so because of the tight spaces and high amount of foot traffic. Before embarking on any lengthy journey using your RV, you want to make sure you have an array of quality cleaning supplies available to perform general maintenance as needed.

Cleaners you want to consider are toilet bowl and tile cleaners, all-purpose disinfectants, stove-top or range cleaners or degreasers, mildew and stain removers, air fresheners, and glass cleaners. If you aren’t sure exactly what kinds of cleaners you may need in a pinch, simply take a look at the interior cleaning section of our online store. We have exactly what you need right there.

While you also may want to invest in a few exterior RV cleaners as well, you likely won’t have to rely on these as often and if you forget them on a trip, you’re not liable to miss them much. Whereas, if you forget to bring the toilet bowl cleaner or the disinfectant on a trip, you could be dealing with unpleasant odors or worse. Always best to be prepared!

Durable and Convenient Coolers
Your RV likely has some kind of refrigerator or mini-fridge, but coolers are necessary as well if you intend on keeping your food and drinks cold while you are outside and moving about. What is convenient about quality coolers is that they allow you to easily take your favorite drinks or perishable snacks into the woods or onto the beach without a second thought. They are perfect for outdoor get-togethers and parties and are simply convenient if you want to lounge outside for a while and not have to keep coming back into your RV every time you want a refreshing beverage.

RV Surge Protectors
Protecting your electrical equipment is simply a common-sense move when you are traveling in your RV but purchasing a surge protector may go overlooked. Depending on the capabilities of your RV, you have to be careful about overloading the electrical system. RV surge protectors work similarly to the common surge protectors that you use throughout your home but are heavy-duty and better suited for the various appliances you will be using in an RV. Make sure you have one of these on hand and a backup as well just to be prepared because, in terms of handy RV supplies, they are easily one of the most important.

Energy Efficient LED Bulbs
Unless you are only using your RV for travel and not much else, you’re going to be using its lights for your convenience. Having energy-efficient LED bulbs on hand will help you save a bit on energy, plus you know you will be helping the environment as well. Having a bunch in storage will ensure that in case one goes dim you always have a spare.

It can take quite a bit of energy to run an RV so it’s important to know how to save energy (and money!) wherever possible. LED bulbs are one way to trim the fat on your energy usage and also care for the environment at the same time.

An All-Purpose Step Ladder
The last item on our list may be the most functional of all of them, and perhaps one of the most overlooked. A step ladder can be used for a wide range of different purposes, and while it isn’t absolutely essential to have, it can have a massive impact on your ability to maintain your RV and perform certain routine tasks.

For instance, a step ladder can help you clean the exterior of your RV far easier than if you had to go without one. Depending on the specific cleaning task, you may even consider a step ladder essential. There are certainly tools you can use to improvise which negate the need to climb onto a step ladder, but they do make quite a bit of difference and provide a load of convenience in this area.

Another reason why you may need a step ladder is for adjusting or attaching certain items or accessories to your RV. This includes your awning, satellite dish, or anything else that may require you to interact with the roof or higher areas of the RV. If something appears off or damaged in this area, a step ladder may be necessary to get a good look at the issue or address it directly.

There are plenty of other practical uses for having a step ladder aboard as well. You can use them out in nature to help you hang flags, clotheslines, or hammocks, and can even provide you with some much-needed height when setting up larger tents as well. As useful as a step ladder is to have around your home, these simple items are just as useful on the road as well. Every RV owner should have one on hand.

Where to Find High-Quality RV Supplies
Having the right supplies for your RV can make a huge difference in terms of how you are able to enjoy yourself and make the most of your vacation or outing. Whether it’s important cleaning tools or useful gadgets, cooking supplies and utensils or items for outdoor recreation, you will be able to find them right here in our store at RV Upgrades. Our selection of RV supplies and equipment is truly substantial, which will allow you to find everything you could possibly need during the course of a road trip or extended excursion.

It’s important to note that you want your RV experience to be as smooth and fun as possible. The right supplies can help you craft the exact experience you are looking for. Once you have your RV and the proper appliances and necessary tools, you can stock your RV with all of the unique and special supplies that will flesh it out and make it your own.

It all depends on what you want out of your RV and how many creature comforts you are looking for. Some of the supplies we have in our store are downright essential for a complete RV experience while others will simply reduce headaches or make your time on the road easier. Either way, take a look through our store if you are curious as to what we have available, or feel free to get in touch with us if you are looking for something specific or have any questions. We want to make sure you have everything you need to get the most out of your RV and have an incredible time while you are camping, sightseeing, or on the road.

5 Essential Camper Parts to Purchase

 

If you’re a first-timer when it comes to using your camper, it may be hard for you to evaluate the kind of camper parts and accessories that are essential for you to purchase. If that is the case for you, there’s no better place to be than on our website.

We have a multitude of parts and accessories that will improve your RV or camper experience in just the click of a button. Whether you are looking for electrical supplies, cleaner, lighting, and more to maintain the quality of your camper, we have it all.

There are so many camper parts that are deemed necessary to have, and a lot of them, you’ll be able to discover along the way. Other parts can be essential to have with you to make each experience with your camper as enjoyable as possible.

Below are some essentials from our website that may be useful for your camper:

Leveling Blocks

One essential for your camper that many don’t think to purchase are leveling blocks. As the name suggests, leveling blocks allow you to level your vehicle or camper and keep them stable. This will come in handy, especially as you bring your camper to a campground.

Another reason why leveling is important for your camper is that they prevent any additional stress or damage to your camper’s frame. This can cause long term issues with some of your campers’ general parts.

On our website, we sell Camco RV FasTen Leveling Blocks that are affordable, durable, and very easy to use.

The Camco set comes with a T handle so that you can bring the blocks with you. They are also UV stabilized so that they don’t get damaged by sunlight. Just this minor addition can maintain the stability of your camper.

Drinking Water Hose

If you want odorless, fresh-tasting water, you’ll want to invest in a drinking water hose. These allow you to run safe drinking water to your camper without having to worry about drinking water that isn’t FDA approved.

We offer many water hoses on our site, many of which differ in terms of brand and length. One affordable option that you can trust is the Aqua Pro Supreme Drinking Water Hose - 50 ft.

It is designed with lead-free material so that your water is safe to consume. It is also flexible making it easy to pack up with you when you’re finished using it. The hose coupling that it comes with attaches easily to the faucet without any hassles.

Sewer Hose

One camper part that is essential for you to have is a sewer hose. The quality of the one that you get can make all the difference in terms of how easy or difficult it is to hook it up.

To avoid any mishaps when setting up yours, investing in one that is durable and gives you the support you need to maintain it will make the process a lot easier. 

One popular pick that we sell on our website is the Camco RhinoFLEX RV Sewer Hose Kit - 20’. For many, it is considered to be the toughest sewer hose you can buy due to its 23 mil. thickness. Polyolefin reinforced with steel wire material gives you the ability to mold it and shape it into the way that you want it.

The kit contains two 10’ hoses, so depending on the length that you need, you can adjust accordingly.

Fire Extinguisher

Although most RVs come with fire extinguishers, an extra compact one can always come in handy for further safety measures.

What makes the Element E50 Professional Compact Fire Extinguisher that we carry on our website so different is that it is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and more compact.

It also has a quick discharge time, thus being useful to put out fires with ease. Its lightweight and small size makes it easier to maneuver and bring along with you.

Water Pressure Regulator

To prevent damage to your camper’s water hose and inconsistent water pressure, you’ll want a water pressure regulator to regulate it.

The proper water pressure regulator can sustain the life of your equipment for more extended periods of time. The Camco 40052 Water Pressure Regulator is an affordable piece that we carry, although you are free to take a look at some of the options we have as well.

Shop Our Selection

No matter what various additional parts you are looking for, we have just what you need. We give our customers plenty of options in terms of brands and prices so they can select what they want and need comfortably.

Anything that you buy from our website will be of durable and high quality to enhance your RV experience.

If you have any questions while shopping, our team can help you. Simply call 1-866-332-7881 and a member of our team will be ready to assist you.