Ep. 107: Top 10 RV Essentials for Newbies | RV camping gear how-to

So, you just spent all that money on a new RV and you're ready now to hit the road, right? Wrong. You need to set aside a couple of grand for things you're going to need to purchase for your RV travels. In this episode of Grand Adventure we share the Top 10 RV Essentials for Newbies that we've tried, tested and can vouch for ourselves.

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Welcome to Grand Adventure, a YouTube channel that focuses on RV-centric outdoor activities including not only of course camping, but also mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, skiing and more, nearly always filmed in stunning 4K.

We're based in Salt Lake City, Utah, and invite you to come along as we travel all around the western U.S. My wife Patricia and I, and our dogs Zoe and Maggie are avid boondockers, so you'll seldom find us in RV parks or even dry campgrounds. Instead, we're usually camped in some of the most remote and beautiful spots that you could ever pull a travel trailer into. And unlike most other RV channels on YouTube, we're not RV dealers or full-timers -- we're weekend warriors just like you!

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#RV #camping #gear #newbie #essentials #accessories

[TheMcMillanExpress]

Marc! This video had so many good points. Perfect for newbies, as far as we're concerned. From the surge protector to x-chocks and comfortable chairs!! All "11" tips were on the money. Thanks for the shout out! From the bottom of our hearts, we think the world of you and appreciate you and your channel so much. 😊 Safe travels and we'll see ya on the next episode!!

[celesteg-g]

This is a good review! The information I have gotten from this channel is fantastic. It has convinced me that RV travel is out of reach for me. The expense of purchasing, maintaining and utilities and fuel are far beyond my reach as a single retired person. Wish I could have retired ten years ago - it may have been a different outcome. At any rate, I truly am glad for the information. It could very well have saved me from financial ruin.

[patrickmcdaniel]

All I was doing was looking for the kind of truck to pull the trailer I haven't bought yet and stumbled across "Top 10 Tips for Safe Mountain Driving...." Three of his videos later I had to drag myself away but I became a subscriber and will be a constant watcher of Mark's work.

[sk-wxcf]

Great video with good tips -- thanks! I got my first travel trailer a year ago. I suggest a couple of additional items.
1. Spare fuses, get a selection of these (different amps), available at most auto parts stores, Walmart, Amazon. Make sure they are the right fit for your rig. Also, a voltmeter is helpful for trouble shooting.
2. a basic tool kit that includes wrenches big enough to check and tighten bolts on your weight dist. hitch assembly, screwdriver that includes the special square bit commonly used in RVs, and a lug wrench for tires. I check lug nuts on RV and truck before each trip.
3. a small magnetized torpedo level to help with leveling. I have an 8" level that i can set across the tongue or on back bumper for side to side leveling, and then set it on tongue, parallel to length of trailer, for front to back leveling. It's magnetic so doesn't fall off while I'm adjusting the trailer.
Thanks again for another helpful video! Safe travels :)

[ApartmentB]

I love my zero g house. I got one at Walmart on sale last winter. The only thing is I bought the 100’ house thinking it would be great, “I can always reach the water now!” But... I didn’t think how much of a pain 100’ of hose is when your only 10’ away!

[jean-yvesdore]

I like a lot your Grand Adventure episodes.
There is a third way to recharge safely your batteries while driving, you will need to install a Dc to Dc converter. with the proper cabling and installation this can recharge your batteries safely with the 3 steps charging mode. I am using the Renogy Dc to Dc 40 amps converter, great and simple at low cost. I installed 4 awg wire from my Grand Cherokee batterie throught a quick connect at the hitch all the way to the Renogy. I am using the tail light voltage to trigger on and off the Renogy, so it will be charging the batteries only while the engine is running. That keep my alternator safe, using Lifepo4 batteries,
Thanks for reading, appologise my writing, english is not my mother tung.

[nolanday]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Saved a lot of grief.

[darisanshanger]

Goodness.. talk about mr. DoseOfReality :-) good show Mark!

[bruceh]

That is a great list built on real experiences. My one addition, which another poster already mentioned is a digital auto ranging volt meter. A clamp on low amp capable amp meter is also a great addition. The RVs of the last twenty five years are totally dependent on the 12 volt electrical system. About the only component not needing electrical is the gas stove. Most components are controlled by a circuit board. Along with the meters is having a basic understanding of the 12 volt system.

As you mentioned at the start, the spending really begins when you leave the dealer lot! I probably have more money in upgrades and modifications than the initial purchase price years ago. The biggest chunk is in the solar and electrical upgrades. I just spent a good amount a couple of days ago swapping out the the original 13, 500 BTU AC for a new 15, 000 unit.

[duckiegirl]

I second that list. Also a good quick set glue, like Gorilla Gel, and a roll of white duct tape and several of locks.. For you surge protector and chaining up your generator!

[lifeisgood]

I used to wrangle with weight distributor-antisway bars from E2. However, since I have a small 16' trailer towing with a 3-4 ton truck, I don't need it.

[mikemurphyseemsliked]

At 12 seconds: “Wrong!” ....LOL - So true, we’ve had our TT for 3 years and we are STILL buying (Over and above maintenance)

[melissakraft]

Thanks for the video of utah. it is on my bucket list,

[gavinstreetie]

Yea the extras tell me about it ! Very interesting film and Great information, really like your tyre inflator thanks G&Z

[mikemurphyseemsliked]

Hey Mark, (Another) Great video. We have almost all the same gear...except the moon chair, compressor and X-Chocks. I've been looking at those chocks for a while now. I've never actually seen how they work...Gracias for the demo. Cheers.

[jmb]

Marc, thanks this very practical video. I find all of your videos to be very insightful and informative. I'm still a year away from my first rig, trying to gather as much info as possible and appreciate your adventure and product reviews !!!

[gizgad]

It is videos like these that make YT great. Thank you!

[jeffarthur]

Good list, best I’ve seen & can for the most totally agree with
Good advice

[lostweekendscaravan]

Hi Marc. Great information. A lot different from the UK Caravan Essentials. They have just started to sell the Viair Compressor on Amazon Uk Site. Had a look at your shop to, some great products to help New Folks to Rving. Thanks Phil🙂👍

[laughingram]

My wife and I love your videos!
Thank you!!!