There’s some super essential accessories every new RV owner needs. These items have a lot to do with protecting your new rig from theft or damage, and also making it function efficiently and comfortably. We’ve compiled a list of the the top 10 most useful items we’ve purchased since buying our brand new 2021 Airstream in July. We even bought a few of these items before we even picked up our Bambi from the dealer… because they’re that important.
Disclaimer: Many of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you–I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Security
A Universal Coupler Lock
This Reese Universal Coupler Lock is one of those first-buy accessories for your new travel trailer. It’s important to always secure your travel trailer, not only at home, but especially at campsites.
The last thing you want is to wake up one morning and see your beautiful new adventure cruiser missing. Buy this coupler lock: ($21.36 on Amazon)
A Wheel Chock Lock
Adding an additional security device is another key way of deterring any attempts at trailer or RV theft. This Wheel Lock also doubles as a wheel chock.
Enjoy peace of mind by adding a second lock to your rig. This one has over 1,000 positive ratings on Amazon so we picked it up right away. ($59.02 on Amazon)
Function
Electric Trailer Brake Controller
A brake controller is a must-have (read: required by law) for any towed trailer weighing in at 3500 lbs or more. Trust me, even if you know your big old SUV or Truck has major towing capacity, you still probably need one of these bad boys installed after-market. In the unlikely event of a sway situation, you need a brake controller for your trailer’s electronic brake system. It sounds great to purchase a trailer with a brake system but if you’ve got nothing to control it with, you’re what they say… “up a creek.” Do your homework on your tow vehicle BEFORE buying your RV and make sure you’re equipped to tow.
It’s suggested to tow at just 80% of your tow vehicle’s capacity in order to have greater control in an emergency situation. You do not want to be towing at capacity when things go wrong. Also make sure your tongue (hitch) weight meets your trailer’s requirements as well. A quick Google search or perusing of your vehicle’s owner’s manual can help you identify what you’ve got. But if you’re like us, you might have to trade in your smaller SUV for something that can actually pull some weight. When we bought our used Nissan Armada, it had a wired trailer brake control system in place from the previous owners. But we purchased this wireless one made by CURT anyways so we can offer it to our Airstream renters who want to tow with their own properly equipped tow vehicle.
Camper Levelers
Bear with me, I know this is basic… but every noob and future RV owner needs to know: your first order of business upon arriving at your campsite is to level your rig. That starts with the wheels. Not all surfaces are created equal! Put another way, they aren’t all perfectly level. One side of your rig inevitably needs to be raised. This Camper Leveler & Chock Kit, made by Andersen Hitches, is the easiest to use solution. Just back up your trailer or RV onto this block and chock it once level! Boom–that simple. ($99.99 on Amazon, but your local Wal-Mart might have it for cheaper…ours did!)
Stabilizer Blocks
These can be used for leveling too, but we primarily use them at each stabilizer and of course the tongue. If camping on a softer surface these blocks help distribute the weight a bit more evenly. And they aren’t an ugly wood block from your garage. Easy to store, these blocks are a must-buy before your first camp outing. ($30.88 on Amazon, but try your local Wal-Mart to compare prices).
Portable “Patio”
Every RV or Camper needs some type of mat on the exterior ground near the entrance. This help keeps the inside of your rig dirt and sand-free and also warms up the design!
These innovative sand-free blankets are durable enough to lay on rocks and stylish enough to look like you didn’t buy it at Menards. We’ve partnered with C-GEAR to provide you with this 10% OFF Coupon Code: CGEAR10 at checkout. Visit the C-Gear website to shop several size, color, and pattern options to pick what’s right for you. We went with the largest 10ft x 10 ft C-Gear blanket in the Blue/Lime color. Check out this other Airstreamer’s C-Gear patio on the ‘gram:
Toilet Paper… for RVs
You read that right, you need special toilet paper. Sorry, say goodbye to the super soft, multi-layered rolls you’re used to. To avoid major mechanical issues, you need to purchase some 1-ply TP that will easily dissolve. The last thing you want is to be on a long-anticipated road trip only to have to call a certified RV mechanic to fix your loo. Not how I want to spend my money! Buy the right toilet paper here. ($25.30 on Amazon)
Sustenance
Camping Cookbook
Every camper needs a camping cookbook. Why? Because you just can’t depend on your cell service for a recipe while on the open road! We purchased Emma Frisch’s Feast by Firelight cookbook and have not been disappointed.
Recipes for camping, cabins and the great outdoors. Pick one up on Amazon for just $15.49 and place it on or next to your dinette for a fun coffee table book. ($15.49 on Amazon)
Coffee Maker
Break into a new coffee brewing method that you reserve for the road. Even if you’re already home brewing pour-overs every morning, why not try an alternate prep method? We typically brew our coffee in a Chemex at home, but opted for a less breakable alternative for our Airstream. We have loved this Aeropress. We even considered making a YouTube tutorial on how to use it, but of course someone has produced an amazing video already:
Check out this process and find it on Amazon for just $29.95. Don’t forget to buy or bring a kettle to boil the water.
Cast Iron Skillet
Every camp kitchen needs a classic cast iron skillet (was that alliterative enough for everybody?). As long as you remember this simple golden rule: **NEVER CLEAN YOUR CAST IRON WITH SOAP** you will be a happy camper.
We purchased an 8-inch skillet that is small enough to be compatible with our small RV burner, but you can also bring these bad boys outside and cook with them on the open fire or charcoal grill. Find one at Target or online at Amazon. Even better, find a super old one at a local antique store. They’re littered with them and they’ve been “seasoned” for years!
I hope this list of 10 accessories every new RV owner needs was helpful! It’s a bit overwhelming to be a new RV owner, but these products make it more safe, secure, comfortable, and tasty. If you’re not quite an RV owner, but considering purchasing an iconic travel trailer–check out our brand new Airstream Bambi 19CB available for rent on Outdoorsy. You can rent ours to test out the Airstream life and see if it’s for you and your family! We might be biased but we think you’ll have a blast.
