10 Cool Ways to Upgrade Your RV

Hardwired Surge Protectors

Most RVs come with standard outlets. This doesn’t help if a surge overloads them when your TV, computer or other electronic devices are plugged in. If you rely on entertainment when relaxing indoors or work on the road, one of the safest options is to hardwire surge protectors within your RV.

You can do this by protecting individual outlets or installing a hard-wired surge protector where your electric runs into your rig. The latter option will protect your entire RV if a surge occurs.

LED Lighting

LED lighting comes in many forms. Whether you replace individual light bulbs throughout the RV or opt for outdoor lighting to make evenings more magical, LED, lighting is energy efficient and better for your eyesight. For the outdoors, using string lights can make your awnings and setup even brighter after the sun goes down. They also last much longer than about any other light on the market, saving you money as you travel.

Pro Tip: You can install LED lighting yourself without the help of a professional with double-sided tape and Command hooks to save money on installation.

Solar Panels

As more RV manufacturers look for ways to integrate solar panels on rigs, RVers are getting creative with how they install panels themselves. If you’re looking to save money and get more out of boondocking or dry camping, consider solar panels for your recreational vehicles. Panels come in a variety of sizes and depending on where you travel; you could power the essentials during even the most remote of trips.

TV Dishes and Signal Boosters

If you can’t give up "Game of Thrones" or must see your favorite football game live, installing a TV dish or signal booster is an option. Many RVs can be fitted with satellites or antennas, giving you access to mobile television service. While these services won’t be available in remote locations, if you’re traveling in more populated areas, you’ll never miss the latest daytime soaps or Shonda Rhimes dramas.

Pro Tip: When buying an RV, ask about what satellite dishes and boosters work the best with what you have your eye on. You often can get these added on for much cheaper at the point of purchase then down the line.

Headphone Jacks

If you're traveling alone on the road, headphones may not seem like an appealing idea. If you’re traveling with the family, getting some peace and quiet might be worth the investment. Headphones jacks can often be installed throughout an RV or remote headphone jacks can be used to allow everyone to entertain themselves without driving each other mad.

Showerheads

One of the easiest accessories for anyone to install in an RV is a showerhead. Often, the shower head that comes installed isn’t that powerful or comforting after a long day on the road. Install a showerhead that helps you relax at the end of the day, and you’ll understand the beauty of installing such a simple piece of hardware. 

Walkie Talkies

​Walkie-talkies may seem like a basic accessory, but they can make a world of difference when RVing. If you’re backing into a spot, communicating with your spotter will be easier. If you’re spread out in a Class A motorhome, getting the attention of the kids in the back is simpler than yelling. If you venture out into the woods from your RV site, staying in contact with those in the rig is easy with walkie-talkies.

Pro Tip: Walkie-talkies can be a smart investment whether you use them for your RV, traditional camping, music festivals, sporting events, or other outdoor festivities you take part in.

Portable Air Compressor

A portable air compressor is one of those RV accessories you invest in the hopes you rarely use it. It can help refill your tires if they’re low or flat; it can help pump up ATV tires and bicycle tires before you have fun. While even a portable air compressor will take up considerable space, it’s worth the investment if you’re bringing toys on the road.

Pro Tip: Ensure you have enough storage for a portable air compressor before you make the buy. Measure your undercarriage storage space or consider storing the compressor under a cover on a rack on the back of your RV.

Weather Station

An indoor weather station display is essential for any RVer hitting the road. These devices help alert you to the current weather conditions, including humidity, temperature, extreme weather alerts, and more. This can be helpful if the weather turns bad, alerting you to find shelter to wait out a storm. These weather stations are linked to weather satellites and radios stations so that no matter where you travel, you’ll never worry about missing a weather update.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check the batteries before you leave on your next trip when using a weather station to keep it in working condition. By using a battery source for its power, you can still get alerts if the power at the RV park goes out or you can’t risk turning on your rig.

Windows Shades

Want a cooler RV in summer? Want to trap heat during winter? RV window shades or covers can help do that and cut down on the amount of electricity you use when parked. The easiest way to install window shades is to buy curtains for each window. Blackout shades in either season are one of the most efficient options. They will cost more than you might want to spend because of getting them customized for the size of each window in your RV.

Buying the RV of your dreams is the first step to getting the most out of it on and off the road. By investing in RV accessories, upgrading key components, and getting creative with how you deal with creature comforts on the road, you can get even more than you imagined out of your initial buy.