RV Safety Starter Kit: 10 Tips for a Carefree Camping Experience

Most people think you can just load your things into your RV and hit the road for a safe adventure. But, RVing is not such a simple operation, especially if you’re preparing for a long trip. Safety should always be your main concern, so here are some things you must have at hand for a carefree camping experience.

1. Tire pressure monitoring system

Before you depart, you should always check your tire pressure (and continue to enjoy RV lifestyle while on the road). This task can be made easy with a tire pressure monitoring system that includes numerous transmitters, a display and replaceable batteries.

In order to keep your tires additionally protected, you can also purchase tire covers. These will come in handy when you’re camping in warm locations with a lot of sun that can damage your tires and cause a potential blow-out.

2. Spare tire carrier

Most motorhomes don’t come with a spare tire or even a mount where you could put your spare. What you can do is get a roof rack to carry your tire, but having to get a heavy RV tire from above your head if you need to use it is not an attractive idea. Luckily, there are specialized spare tire carriers for RV that work on almost any type of motorhome with tires ranging from 16” to 24.5”.

3. Leveling pad

Once you have your tires settled, you need to make sure your RV will stand firmly on the ground when you arrive at your campsite. Even if your RV appears level, it might be a little off-kilter, which can mess with slide outs and affect your fridge function (and your overall comfort). But, with a simple leveling pad, you can even things out quickly and efficiently. Choking your wheels also boosts safety and provides extra stability to your home base.

4. Surge guard

Many campgrounds offer power, but it can be unreliable and damaging to electronics in case of a power surge. If you’re RVing with kids and they lose their electronics, you’ll all have a bad time. But if you get a surge guard, it will ensure all your electronic components are protected in case the energy spikes or your pedestal wiring develops some issues.

A model with a built-in scrolling digital display allows you to easily diagnose any voltage issues. Most portable systems are suitable for outdoor use and they come with weather shields and locking brackets for extra security.

5. Cameras

New RVs come with built-in cameras for safe parking, driving and docking, but older models don’t have them. In order to boost safety at the campsite and on the road, you can invest in a practical RV camera system that provides you with secure, real-time footage you can rely on. No matter if you want to ensure safe lane changes on the road, make backing up easier or keep an eye on your RV when you’re away, a camera system can do everything.

6. RV-specific GPS

RVs are much taller, longer and wider than regular cars, so your GPS might take you through some narrow, winding roads or under low bridges you can’t safely navigate. In that case, you’ll benefit from an RV-specific GPS that allows you to input your vehicle dimensions and get a route that will avoid all roads that might be dangerous for you.

7. Two-way radio

If you need some help with RV parking or if you and your companions are driving two separate vehicles in an area with bad reception, you will love your handheld two-way radios for easy communication. Make sure your radios come with weather channels built-in so you can always keep an ear on dangerous weather.

8. Roof vent cover

You don’t even know you need this gadget, but once you have it, you’ll fall in love instantly. A vent cover allows you to keep your vents open even during the extreme weather. With a gadget like this, you can run your fan or practice safe cooking even during heavy rainfall—no rain will enter your motorhome. It also provides some extra protection from the sun and debris.

9. Basic tools

Having some basic tools with you (and knowing how to use them) is always a good idea. It’s easy to go overboard with tools, so make sure to check out some articles on what you actually need on the road.

10. Bear spray

If you love to camp somewhere in nature and you’re not a stranger venturing into bear territory, you must have a bear spray with you. You’ll probably have your bear spray for years without ever having to use it, but it’s best to have it just in case. If you’re crossing the border during your trip, make sure to check whether such a thing is allowed in another state or country.

The gadgets and tools in this RV Safety Starter Kit will not only make your trip much safer, but they will also boost comfort in your RV. So before you depart on your next camping trip, make sure to equip your RV properly so you can enjoy a carefree adventure.

Lily Miller

Lilly Miller is a Sydney-based graphic designer and a passionate writer. Loves everything about home decor, art history and baking. Shares home with two loving dogs and a gecko named Rodney.