Required statement: Links in this chapter are to tools I have purchased via Amazon and I am an Amazon affiliate so I will make a small commission off of everything you purchase via my links, there is no extra cost to you.
Bare Necessities
Whether in your driveway or at a campground.
If you are going boondocking that is a different thing and more things are potentially required, like generator or solar panel setup, etc.
Ok this what I consider starter set of items, you will find more as your journey of RVing continues, got any questions, don’t hesitate to ask, think I missed something, either way send an email to info@RVingForNewbies.com or text 740-206-8522
Electrical Systems
Dog Bone Adapters
If you have a 50Amp RV, you need a female 50A -> male 30A adapter for those times when you are at a 30A ONLY electrical pedestal. Keep in mind you cannot run your entire 50A RV on a 30A pedestal receptacle, see Advanced Course on Electricity for explanation.
https://amzn.to/3gZQxYp
https://amzn.to/3gZQxYp
If you have a 30Amp RV, you need a female 30A —> male 50A adapter for those times when you are at a 50A ONLY electrical pedestal.
https://amzn.to/3qAYYfW
If you have a 15 Amp RV, you need a female 15A —> male 30A adapter for those times when you are at a 30A ONLY electrical pedestal and have a 15Amp plug, normally found on popups and small teardrop trailers.
https://amzn.to/2Y2yGJH.
Electrical Management Systems (EMS) & Surge Protectors
I recommend an EMS but if you choose for less protection at least have a surge protector. An EMS protects you from high AND low voltage whereas a surge protector only protects you from high voltage. Pick one of the EMS below or one of the surge protector based on your RV needs.
Combo Surge & EMS: Hughes Autoformer – Electrical Management System (EMS)
Hughes Autoformer 50Amphttps://amzn.to/3e4bJuv |
Hughes Autoformer 30 Amphttps://amzn.to/2TBGNKV |
50 Amp RV EMS & Surge Protector
Progressive Industries EMS 50 Amp
|
Progressive Industries Surge Protector 50 Amp https://amzn.to/3h1yG0Y |
30 Amp RV – EMS & Surge Protector
Progressive Industries Electrical Management System (EMS)https://amzn.to/3dFDnvx |
Progressive Industries Surge Guard Surge Protector (30A)https://amzn.to/2A5VMTu |
NCVT (Non-Contact Voltage Tester)
Used to check campground pedestal before touching it, see Chapter 3: Introduction to RV Electricity 120 Volts Alternating Current (AC), Checking of Campground Pedestal (Basic)
https://amzn.to/3r1qYcy
Volt-meter
One of the most important things you can purchase after the RV, it is indispensable when trouble shooting electrical issues.
Simple Volt/Multi-meter
https://amzn.to/2VZlGAm |
Heavy Duty Volt/Multi-meter https://amzn.to/2ZOJvvN |
Fuses 12V DC
Be sure to pick up a couple 40A fuses also, will discuss why in Chapter 9 Electricity: Advanced
https://amzn.to/3iKoZ8c
Polarity/GFCI Tester
https://amzn.to/3xwmKfy
RV Electricity book
This is the best book on the market for learning about RV Electricity, hands down.
https://amzn.to/3zszzZc
Water/Dump Systems
Potable Water Hose
https://amzn.to/3k0GtjH
Water Filter (assuming you don’t have an on-board water filter)
https://amzn.to/3xyFwDc
Water Pressure Regulator
https://amzn.to/3i1XFmq
Stinky Slinky, aka Sewer Hose
https://amzn.to/3hBGaud
Tools
Black Electrical Tape
https://amzn.to/3xyS0KT
Flashlight (these ones last a long time and are rechargeable,
I use them for my RV Inspection Biz)
https://amzn.to/3e4V49P
Electronic Level
To make sure your RV is level, if you have a propane/120V AC refrigerator, aka Absorption Type, this is essential.
https://amzn.to/3r1Np1s
Power screwdriver/drill
https://amzn.to/3hrQtkd
Tape Measure
https://amzn.to/36pJIZN
Tire Pressure Gauge
https://amzn.to/3k6iJuu
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by Tireminder
https://amzn.to/3xtgpBA
Various sockets/wrenches, this just an example of one, you might have all the tools you need already but if not, look at this one.
https://amzn.to/3k5wnOo
Infrared Thermometer:
https://amzn.to/3mCPnFp
Various type of pliers (channel locks, regular pliers, wire cutters), this is an example set, you might have everything you need already.
Ok this what I consider starter set of items, you will find more as your journey of RVing continues, got any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.