Accessories & Gifts For RV Owners They Will Actually Use
What do you buy as a gift for an RV owner or full-time camper? The most important thing to think about is that they’re traveling with very limited space.
Whatever you get them, you need to make sure it’s something they’re actually going to use, like a practical RV accessory.
Related Product: See how level your RV is using an App on your phone with the LevelMatePro Wireless RV Leveling System (click to view on Amazon)
I live full-time in my travel trailer, and some of these accessories I never would have even known about if someone hadn’t suggested or given them to me.
This list is 25 ideas that I know would make awesome gifts for your camping friends, or maybe retired parents that are full-time RVers.
Some are practical unique gifts, while some are more fun RV accessories.
I also put some must-haves on the list, since I see so many RV campers out there without some of the most important RV accessories, like wheel chocks or a decent camping chair.
Top 3 Picks
- Portable Propane Fire Pit by Outland
- Solar Panel RV Battery Charger by SOLPERK
- iClimb Compact Camping Chair
See Also: 50 Must-Have RV Kitchen Accessories For Full Time RV Living
1. Unbreakable Dinnerware by Corelle
Unbreakable dinnerware for camping and RVing.
Paper plates are a huge part of camping for most people, but it can get tiresome for those who camp a ton or live full time in their RV.
There’s nothing quite like using a real plate, bowl, or mug while camping.
It brings the comforts of home to the outdoors which not only makes dinnertime more enjoyable, it also makes it feel more normal.
Most people turn to plastic for durable dinnerware options for their campers, but materials like Corelle can be just as good.
We have a Corelle dinnerware set in our own travel trailer just like this one.
They are sitting in one of the kitchen cupboards and even though they clink together during travel, they have never been chipped or cracked.
There was one incident when we forgot to secure the cupboard door and it opened while we were driving on an extra rough dirt road.
All of our Corelle was found on the floor. It had dropped about 6 feet and only 1 bowl and a mug were broken. Everything else had survived somehow.
We have been very impressed with this dish set. It’s proven to be as unbreakable as advertised and they are fantastic to eat off of.
For more unbreakable dinnerware options and reviews, you can check out this post here.
2. Portable Propane Fire Pit by Outland
Portable propane fire pits for RV campers have become very popular in the past couple of years.
They don’t produce any smoke, they can be used during most fire bans, and set up only takes a few minutes.
Outland makes one of the best propane fire pits for any kind of camper.
The included accessories make it easy to pack it away and store in the outside storage of an RV or in the bed of a truck.
We have this exact one and it’s amazing how much more time we spend outdoors.
For full-timers who boondock it’s fantastic because you can have a campfire every night and you don’t smell like smoke all the time.
And they are still good for making s’mores which is a must when camping.
For a full review and more information on the Outland Firebowl check out this post here.
3. Mr. Heater Little Buddy Propane Heater
No matter what time of year you are camping chilly mornings and nights are a very common problem for all RVers and tent campers.
A portable propane heater like the Little Buddy by Mr. Heater is safe to use inside RVs and even large tents.
It uses no electricity, and it puts out a decent amount of heat for its small size.
It runs off of a small 1 lb propane tank which is the only size that is technically legal to have and use indoors.
There are tons of safety features and it packs down to a very portable size making it perfect for every kind of camper whether it’s an RVer, van dweller, or tent camper.
For a full review of the Little Buddy by Mr. Heater check out this post here.
4. Oversized Camping Moon Chair by MacSports
Camping chairs aren’t what they used to be.
Companies are working hard to make comfortable camp chairs that are still very portable but take comfort to a whole new level.
Oversized moon chairs are a fantastic gift for RVers of every size. They have extra high weight capacities and seat widths.
The moon chair made by MacSports is one of the best on the market today. It has extra padding for maximum comfort and a heavy duty weight capacity of 375 lbs.
Even though it’s large, it still folds up to a small portable size and comes with a high quality zippered duffel storage bag.
For more oversized moon chair options and information check out this post here.
5. iClimb Compact Camping Chair
If the RV owning or camping friend you want to get the perfect gift for has limited storage space, consider getting them a camping chair that’s a little more lightweight and portable than a fancy oversized camp chair.
Backpacking chairs like the iClimb weigh only 1-2 lbs and collapse down to a tiny size that’s not much larger than a pencil case.
They can expand into adult sized camp chairs and they are the perfect way to have some extra seating for visitors without taking up too much storage space.
Personally I think they’re way more comfortable than some might think.
To see more backpacking chairs like the Helinox check out this post here.
6. X-Chock Wheel Stabilizer
If your friend or family member doesn’t have a pair of X-Chocks, then these would make an excellent practical gift.
X-chocks are used with travel trailers, and 5th wheels that have at least two tires on each side (tandem axle trailers).
They are set up between the tires when the vehicle is parked and make it much more stable to walk around in.
This kit comes with everything they’re going to need: two X-chocks and a tool to set them up.
Our X-Chocks are part of our setup process, and since we know they work so well, we recommend them to every RVer with a tandem tire trailer.
As far as camper trailer accessories go X-chocks fit in the must-have category.
7. Rubber Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks are an RV necessity. They go in front and behind tires when an RV or camper trailer is parked to stop it from rolling away.
Most people get plastic wheel chocks and don’t realize that they won’t be strong enough to stop a heavy rolling camper.
We use rubber wheel chocks, and they make a great practical gift for RV owners since they’re a camper accessory everybody needs.
To find more RV wheel chock options and get more info on X-chocks check out this post here.
8. Goal Zero Yeti 200x Portable Power Station Kit
RVers and tent camper who boondock (camp without power) all have the same issue keeping the electronics they use daily like phones, speakers, and cameras charged while spending time out in the wilderness.
Many RV owners solve this problem with generators but they are noisy and can be a pain to set up just to keep a few electronics charged.
Solar power stations like the Goal Zero Yeti 200x are perfect for any kind of camper.
It’s basically a small lithium battery with a built in inverter you can plug regular electronics into. It can even run a TV for a couple of hours.
They make no noise and are very portable.
This kit includes a solar power station and a solar panel you can use to keep it charged up during the day. You can also charge it at home using a regular outlet before you head to the campsite.
Power stations like these are definitely a more premium option for gift giving, but it’s something any camper will use for years to come.
To see more solar power stations that come with solar panels check out this article here.
9. Solar Panel RV Battery Charger by SOLPERK
As I mentioned in the previous product, one of the ways RVers get power when dry camping or boondocking is to use a noisy generator.
The second option is to get a solar panel with a charge controller.
You can connect directly to the batteries to keep them charged up so you can continue to use the lights, water pump, jacks, propane fridge, and propane water heater.
The SOLPERK solar RV battery charger is portable a 50 watt solar panel with a charge controller and everything else you need to start charging a 12 volt RV battery.
It’s completely waterproof and comes with a tilting stand that’s also a mounting bracket.
Keeping batteries charged when boondocking is a struggle all RV owners know.
Getting the gift of being able to charge them with the sun is something any camper will appreciate.
Showering in an RV is one of those things that has never been great with RV life. Low pressure and limited water will make it hard to enjoy it.
There are ways to make it more pleasant, like using a different shower head than the one that came with the RV.
This one from Oxygenics will give you 1.25 to 2 gallons per minute with much better pressure.
It has multiple spray settings and it makes it seem like it’s putting out a lot of water even though it’s really not.
If you know your friend uses the shower in their RV camper, this will be a huge hit. It’s a very practical gift that will improve any camping experience.
11. RV Backup Camera by Haloview
RVs, travel trailers, 5th-wheels, vans, and even truck campers all have one thing in common. It’s really hard, if not impossible, to see what’s going on directly behind them.
RV backup cameras are a fantastic way to fix this issue.
The wireless kind like the Haloview don’t require hardly any installation.
Even if your RV owning friend has a camper with a pre-wire backup camera kit, Haloview makes adapters to fit the different pre-wire camera brands.
It’s a fantastic gift idea that will not only help your RV owning friend back better but help keep them safe while traveling.
12. Magnetic Door Latches
Do you know someones who’s always working on their RV? Does it seem like there is no end to the stuff there is to do?
The RV enthusiast is going to love these.
The standard baggage door latches on RVs break and are a pain in the butt to use. Newer RVs come with magnetic latches, but older ones don’t have that luxury.
Luckily, you can buy magnetic latches and install them yourself on older trailers.
It’s a small unique gift that might make one wonder what they’re for, but when installed, they’re one of those small upgrades that are so worth it.
13. Pop Up Screen Tent by Clam Outdoors
There’s nothing better than a summer evening out in the forest, until the bugs come out.
We’ve all been outside trying to enjoy ourselves while being harassed by flies and mosquitoes.
They are especially thick in forested areas and near water, which are some of the best places to camp.
If your RV owning friends like to spend time outside their camper, a pop-up screen tent is one of the best ways to make the time spend outdoors more pleasant.
The pop up style like the one by Clam Outdoors can be set up in 60 seconds by one person and it folds down to a small portable size.
If you get the large version, you can put it over a picnic table to protect and shade while you’re eating or preparing food.
There are even large wind panels available. You can hang up to protect against the wind and they can handle light rain.
Pop-up screen tents are another fantastic gift for any kind of camper that will surely be appreciated and used at every campground.
14. Outdoor RV Mat by Reversible Mats
Putting a mat down outside a trailer will instantly make it feel more like home. It adds something special to the camp.
I have one of these from Reversible Mats.
I like it because it still looks the same after a year of camping, and it’s extremely easy to clean and pack away thanks to its material.
It goes into an included bag and comes in different sizes and colors.
Having a mat outside a camper or tent doesn’t just make your campsite feel more like home, it also keeps the inside cleaner.
Any dirt that would normally be tracked inside an RV or tent falls off onto the plastic outdoor mat instead.
These kinds of mats are a fantastic gift for any kind of camper, but RV owners will be especially happy.
15. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker By Bose
One of the best purchases I have made for my RV is this waterproof Bluetooth speaker from Bose.
I can play music anywhere for hours, and it has incredible sound quality.
It’s small, portable, waterproof, and sounds fantastic.
You charge it with USB, and it’s a gift that will be used.
I have bought these for family members, and I have seen all of them being used during the camping season and at home.
16. Solar Powered String Lights By MPowerd
Cozy outdoor and indoor lighting is important for camping. Sometimes the bright light from an RV light or lantern isn’t what you need to enjoy your time in nature.
These string lights are made to be hung up anywhere over and over again.
The electric cable has a durable string cover and there are 10 plastic bulbs with 2 LED lights in each.
The cord reaches 18 feet and there are 3 small clips spread throughout you can use to make loops to help hang the lights.
The Luci has three light settings and will put out 100 lumens at the highest. The battery can power the lowest light setting for up to 20 hours.
There is a small solar panel on the body you can use to charge it during the day or you can use the USB on the end to charge it that way.
The body is also the carry case. It twists open to reveal a storage area you wrap the light cord around.
Then just push and twist to shut. It’s simple, small, and puts out the perfect amount of warm light for any kind of camper.
We use the Luci every day.
Most of the time we have the lights strung up inside our travel trailer, but when we are spending time outside we take it out and hang it up on the awning.
Solar string lights are a fantastic RV accessory and the perfect gift for any kind of camper.
17. First Aid Kit
Safety first! Some people forget about first aid kits and travel without them.
Or they have one that is ten years old, so the items have expired.
This essential bag comes with 298 pieces that can be life-saving.
An item everybody should have with them, no matter where they are.
18. Headlamp By Vont
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I bought a pack of headlamps for the RV afew years ago, and my wife wondered if we would ever need them.
But let me tell you, I have seen a headlamp on my wife’s head more than I have seen any light in her hands.
Being able to walk around in the dark with both your hands free is extremely useful when camping, and I recommend getting a headlamp to everybody.
Even though we have lights in and outside the RV, it’s easier just to put on a headlamp and step outside and get light wherever you’re looking. A simple gift, but a convenient one.
The headlamps by Vont are durable, have multiple light settings, and have enough water resistance to be used outside while it’s raining.
For a full review of the headlamps by Vont check out this post here.
19. Coffee Percolator by Farberware
Nothing feels more like camping than percolator coffee.
Many of us have memories of camping with family and the old percolator getting brought out to make some of the strongest but most flavorful coffee ever brewed.
It may not be my choice for daily coffee, but for camping, a percolator is perfect.
A coffee percolator is the ultimate coffee RV accessory for several reasons.
One, it doesn’t require any electricity to brew coffee. That’s a big one for campers who boondock.
Second, it doesn’t require any other products like a separate pot to boil water. A percolator is an all in one unit.
If you’re trying to find a simple gift for an RV owner, a percolator is a fantastic option.
It’s usable, doesn’t take up a lot of space, and for many people, there’s a little nostalgia involved.
To see more non-electric coffee maker options for camping and travel check out this post here.
20. Roll Up Aluminum Camp Table by KingCamp
Tables are a must have for RVers, van dwellers, tent campers, and even the weekend backyard BBQ.
A durable but lightweight and very portable camping table is the perfect gift to give any RV owner or outdoor enthusiast.
This aluminum folding/roll up table by KingCamp can pack down to a very small size and it weighs only 15 lbs.
Because of the leg design, it can comfortably fit up to 6 people and you can even put a grill or camp stove on it.
Tables are always in short supply at campsites and they make very usable and greatly appreciated gifts.
To see more camp table options and to read more about the KingCamp check out this post here.
21. Camco 9-inch Pop-A-Plate
Paper plates are a staple for camping life.
Most RV owners use them regularly, and even full time RVers who live in their campers will occasionally pull out the paper plates to save on dishes.
One thing about paper plates is once you open up the packaging, they can be all over the place really quickly.
This paper plate dispenser by Camco is the perfect RV gadget for absolutely any RV owner.
It’s a simple plastic housing that can be mounted under or inside a cabinet.
You then fill it with 9 inch paper plates. The plate dispenser holds them securely. When you need a plate, just slide one out.
It keeps paper plates orderly and saves cabinet or drawer space.
22. Collapsible Bucket By Camco
Campers love collapsible tools.
We all travel with space limitations and everything we pack must have a use and not take too much space.
A bucket is always useful when camping, and this collapsible one from Camco will hold 3 gallons during use and then fold down to less than 2 inches high.
23. Portable Waste Tank by Camco
A lot of RVers camp in campgrounds that don’t have any hook ups at the site, but there is water and a dump station nearby.
A portable RV waste tank is basically a large plastic tub on wheels. RV owners use them to empty their black or gray tank and transport it to a nearby dump station.
This eliminates the need to move the entire RV just to empty the tanks.
You can either camp for a short time more comfortably or spend weeks at the same campsite never needing to move to empty the tanks.
Many portable waste tanks like the Camco Rhino have a bracket on them RVers can use to store them on the ladder of their RV, travel trailer, or 5th-wheel.
If the RV owner you are looking to get a gift for has a ladder on their RV, this is an excellent choice.
To read more about the Camco portable RV waste tank and to see more options check out this post here.
24. Weather Station By La Crosse
Knowing the weather forecast is something we take for granted.
It’s easy to look up what the weather will be like for the week on a phone, but you don’t always have cell phone service when camping.
Knowing the temperature outside makes daily camp life easier.
Weather stations like the La Crosse that measure the humidity levels inside let RVers know when they need to be taking action to help prevent mold growth.
The La Crosse can be connected to regular power, but it is also battery powered with a remote temperature measurement tool you can put outside as well.
This weather station will tell you the temperature, humidity, time, day, date, give pressure readings, and will even give a daily forecast.
Weather stations aren’t something many people think about having in the RV, but they can be a very helpful tool.
Especially when temperatures get low or humidity levels get high.
Chances are your RV owner friend doesn’t have something like this and it could be a fantastic, unique gift to give.
25. Jackery Explorer 240
Portable power stations have changed the outdoor and camping worlds forever. They’ve made it so anyone can have electricity anywhere.
We use a large 1500 watt hour power station in our own RV. It’s how we run pretty much everything, including the microwave.
We use solar panels to charge it back up, and it’s a great way to stay comfortable even when boondocking.
A small 240 watt hour power station like the Jackery Explorer 240 is a fantastic way to introduce your RVing friend to this new world.
It’s big enough to keep all electronics charged up, and can even power a TV for a couple of hours.
You can charge it up at home or with a small solar panel.
If the RVer you are looking to get a gift for often camps without power, the Jackery 240 will be a fantastic gift that’s unique and useful.
See Also: Review Of The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station
If you have any gift ideas you would like to share, leave a comment below.
Hello Jesse, is there a solar generator that does not have an inverter? that it only works at 12v and that it can power a compressor fridge and charge some devices at 12v? that can be charged with solar panels, just like all these new ecoflow and other brands but without an inverter.
Hi Jesse! I finally bought anker 757 for my van right now, it’s on sale and it looks like a very good power station and low noise, I have the two 100w ecoflow panels on the roof connected in parallel, do you think it’s ok? Another thing that has happened to me is that they don’t send me the Engel refrigerator because they have a long delay in production and I’m thinking of buying the 30-liter refrigerator from Anker with a battery included, they have it at a good price on Kickstarter, do you think it’s a good idea? ? in the end the price of the 2 refrigerators are the same
Hi,
Nice! That Anker fridge looks pretty great for the price, and I know Anker is a good brand.
Thanks for your help Jesse, I just bought it! Let’s see how the combination of anker 757 powered by 2x 100w ecoflow rigid solar panels connected in parallel and powering the fridge works.