Cooking on the Road

Magnetic Utensil Holder: Most RV “kitchens” are just small counters with a microwave and a small place to put a stovetop. That doesn’t leave much room for eating or cooking utensils. A metal utensil magnet is easy to install on the wall and will keep all your cooking tools in one place. These magnets are pretty strong, so you won’t have to worry about knives flying if you make a tight turn.

Metal Can Crusher: Install an aluminum can crusher to compact cans and trash. This will save space when it comes to the trash and recyclables.

Slow Cooker: Don’t miss out on home-cooked meals when on the road. Slow cookers come in various sizes so you can find one that meets your needs. There are so many crockpot recipes that you don’t have to limit yourself to stew or chili. Try slow-cooked hot cocoa or glazed pork chops.

Comfy Rest Areas

Projector: Small, portable projectors are great for watching movies and shows on the go. You can shoot the projector at an open wall on the RV or hang a white sheet on the outside of the RV and you’ll have your own private theater. 

Decorative Pillows: Pillows can go a long way in an RV. They bring comfort and a homey feel to the home on wheels. 

Tapestry: Adorn spaces with decorative tapestries on the walls. You can also hang a tapestry from the ceiling to give “rooms” a sense of privacy.

Remember to wash and clean any bedding or furniture before moving it into the RV. If the RV comes pre-furnished, spray it down with bug spray. The best bed bug sprays for an enclosed space will be labeled “natural.” These sprays use essential oils and other non-toxic ingredients that kill and repel bed bugs without harming you or your loved ones.

Restroom Must Haves

Hanging Toiletry Organizer: Hanging toiletry organizers are great for storing soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, and other toiletries, but don’t limit these organizers –– hang one at the exit door with sunscreen, bug spray, and band-aids, or even in the kitchen with cooking spices.

RV Hoses: Make sure you label your RV water hoses or get different colors because you wouldn’t want to mix up the RV water drinking hose with the non-potable water hose you use to flush the tank. 

For the Pit Stops

Wheel Stabilizers: Wheel stabilizers are a necessity when it comes to RVs. How else will you ensure the RV won’t roll away when you’re stopped for the night? Most wheel stabilizers are easy to use, either placed on each side of the tires or you can drive onto the stabilizer. 

RV Awning: If your RV isn’t equipped with an awning, get one for shade. A canopy tent will work just as well, but an installed RV awning is built in and you don’t have to do any setup. This is an easy way to protect yourself from the sun when you are hanging outside. Add string lights to the awning to give you more light once the sun goes down.

Foldable Chairs and Tables: Where are you going to hang out if you don’t have anywhere to sit? Foldable chairs and tables are small and compact, so you can try to fit them in your RV, but you’ll mainly want them for pit stops to sit outside. 

Camp Trash Can: Collapsable camp trash cans are great because they are the size of regular trash cans but without bulkiness. Simply pop open the collapsible trash can when you need it, dump the trash out when you’re done, and fold it back up to store until the next time you need it. 

Pet Must-Haves

Collapsable Food and Water Bowls: Four-legged friends are always welcome on road trips! Pack collapsable food and water bowls so you can keep them fed and hydrated when out and about. These save space inside the RV as well, as you’ll only have to bring them out when it is mealtime. 

Seat Covers: Seat covers are great to protect upholstery from pet hair and claw scratches. They protect the integrity of your actual seats and limit lingering animal smells as the covers can be taken out and washed.  

Portable Pet Enclosure: Portable pet enclosures are perfect for when you want to keep your pet secured but don’t have room for a big crate. 

Don’t Forget

WI-FI Hot Spot: A hot spot is a must if you want to stream movies or music on your road trip. This will help you from using all of your phone data on things like GPS and searches. 

Smart Thermostat: Install travel AC systems and even a smart thermostat in your RV so you can control the temperature with just the touch of your phone. You’ll also be able to set times for when you want the unit on or off. 

RV Roof Rack: If you plan on doing any water activities or packing a lot, install an RV roof rack. You will be able to secure bikes, canoes, and other bulky items to the top of the RV rather than just trying to stuff everything inside. Similarly, you could install a bike rack on the front or back of the RV.

There are so many unique RV accessories to find out in the world that will tailor your road trip experience to what you want. Think outside of the box when planning your ultimate road trip, but don’t forget the necessities like food, water, blankets, clothes, and chargers.

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By Gina Thompson

Gina Thompson is an experienced multimedia journalist, producer, and content writer born and raised in Texas. In her spare time, she loves catching a live band, dancing, and finding the next big taco spot. As a writer, she is passionate about making a positive impact on her community by elevating the voices and stories that need to be heard.