30 Simple RV Upgrades for Full-Time Living
We’re two full-time RVers who’ve been on the road since 2019, exploring the beauty and diversity of North America one mile at a time.
And let us tell you, we’ve learned a thing or two about what it takes to make life on the road comfortable, convenient, and efficient.
After upgrading to a 28-foot Outdoors RV in 2021, we knew we needed to take our RV lifestyle to the next level. So, we set out on a mission to find the top RV upgrades that would take our rig from basic to boss.
And boy, did we hit the jackpot.
In this post, we’re sharing our favorite upgrades for full-time RV living. We’re talking solar panels to keep your batteries charged, leveling systems to make parking a breeze, and everything in between to make your RV a cozy and efficient home on wheels.
So buckle up, fellow nomads, and get ready to learn about some of the best RV upgrades for boondocking!
RV Water System Upgrades
From fresh-tasting H2O coming from the tap to water conservation devices, here are our top recommendations for RV water system upgrades:
1. Water filtration system
A water filtration system is a must for your RV. And let me tell you, the difference in the water quality is noticeable. No more weird tastes or smells, no more worrying about the safety of the water we’re using for cooking, bathing, and other purposes. Just pure, fresh water that we can enjoy with peace of mind.
We recommend Clear Source. Their filters are super effective, using a combination of technologies like activated carbon, ceramic, and sediment filters to remove particles, chemicals, and other harmful substances from the water. It’s the perfect solution for improving the quality of water in an RV, making it possible to enjoy fresh, clean water on the road.
2. Collapsible Water Bladder
One of the most convenient things we’ve added to our RV setup is our collapsible water bladder. With this water bladder, we can easily go to town to get water for our RV, then bring it back to camp and fill up our tank with ease.
And the best part? This bladder can hold up to a whopping 150 gallons of water! Plus, when we’re not using it, it folds up to be super compact and easy to store.
3. Water Pump
We use a water pump to transfer the water from the bladder into our RV. We mostly do this when it’s not practical or efficient to haul 100 gallons of water to our new boondocking location, so we will oftentimes set up camp with only 10-20 gallons of water in our RV and go to town the next day and get water. (For those wondering, our travel trailer holds 100 gallons of fresh water).
4. Oxygenics Low-Flow Shower Head
Now, I know what you’re thinking—a low-flow shower head? Doesn’t that mean I’ll have to sacrifice a good shower experience for the sake of water conservation? Not at all!
The Oxygenics Low-Flow Shower Head is designed to provide a comfortable and satisfying shower experience while using less water than a standard shower head. We’ve noticed a significant decrease in our water usage and the best part? It’s super easy to install and fits seamlessly into any RV shower setup.
5. RV Black Water Treatment
I know it’s not the most glamorous topic, but it’s a crucial component of our RV’s plumbing system. Black water treatment is what helps to treat and discharge the wastewater generated by our RV’s toilet, keeping the sewage system functioning properly.
We personally use a drop-in treatment that dissolves and breaks down the waste, making it easier to discharge and reducing unpleasant odors.
6. Portable waste tank
This baby is a lifesaver when you’re boondocking or camping in remote areas without access to a dump station. We’ve found that even though we can usually go two weeks without needing to dump, having a portable waste tank on hand gives us peace of mind.
Upgrades for Leveling Your RV
7. Leveling blocks
Have you ever parked your travel trailer on a spot that looks flat, only to find that it’s as wobbly as a three-legged stool? We sure have!
Leveling blocks are a game-changer when it comes to parking on uneven ground. We personally use a set of interlocking plastic blocks that are super easy to use. All you have to do is place them under your tires and drive up on them until your trailer is level.
8. LevelMate PRO
Do you ever find yourself spending way too much time trying to level your RV? It’s a struggle we know all too well.
The LevelMate Pro device uses Bluetooth technology to communicate with your smartphone and gives you real-time information on the level of your RV. That means no more guesswork, no more endless adjustments, and definitely no more frustration. It’s like having a personal leveling assistant right in your pocket.
9. Wheel Chocks
You know what’s not safe? Your RV rolling or shifting while parked, especially on uneven ground. Wheel chocks are the unsung heroes of RV safety, ensuring the stability of your rig while parked. And let’s face it, we all want to keep our homes on wheels as safe as possible.
10. Snap pads
One of the most time-consuming tasks is setting up camp, and leveling your rig can be a real pain in the neck. That’s where Snap Pads come in!
Snap Pads are a revolutionary product that attaches to your RV’s leveling jacks and provides an incredibly stable base for your rig. These pads are super easy to install, and once you’ve got them on, you never have to worry about them again.
Upgrades for RV Safety
When it comes to traveling with your home on wheels, safety should always be at the top of your priority list. But don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice freedom for security. With a few simple upgrades, you can have both. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for making sure you’re safe while living in your RV full-time:
11. Hitch lock
As a full-time RVer, I can’t stress enough the importance of keeping your travel trailer secure. Nothing ruins your day more than coming back to your rig and finding it missing! A hitch lock is a small investment that deters would-be thieves from targeting your RV in the first place. If they see that you’ve taken the extra step to secure your trailer, they’re much more likely to move on to an easier target.
12. RV Keyless Door Lock
An RV keyless door lock allows you to lock and unlock your RV’s door without the need for a physical key. This type of lock uses a code or a fob to open the door, making it easier and more convenient to access your RV.
Upgrading our RV with a keyless door lock was one of the best decisions we’ve made! Not only does it provide increased security with no worries about lost or stolen keys, but it also eliminates time-wasting searches for my keys. Plus, I’m more relaxed when away from our RV knowing that every access point is totally secure.
The ease of installation and programming has been amazing and at a fraction of the cost of traditional locks, this upgrade is an absolute must for increasing RV safety.
13. Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Keeping our RV tires in top condition is essential for safety and peace of mind. That’s why we invested in a tire pressure monitoring system, and I have to say, it’s been a game-changer!
No more worrying about whether our tires are properly inflated or not. The system alerts me to any changes in pressure in real-time, so I can take action before any serious problems occur. This type of system can help you avoid blowouts and other tire-related problems, making your RV safer and more reliable on the road.
14. RV surge protector
We don’t spend much time in RV parks, but when we do, we want to make sure our beloved home on wheels is safe from power surges and spikes. Power surges and spikes can happen unexpectedly, and they can wreak havoc on your RV’s electrical system, not to mention your pricey electronics and appliances.
That’s why we don’t leave home without this little device. It’s a small investment that can save us big time in the long run. Plus, it’s super easy to use. We just plug it in between our RV and the power pedestal, and it does its thing, monitoring the electrical current and preventing any harmful spikes or surges from reaching our precious RV.
15. RV backup camera
Our RV backup camera has been a total game-changer for us, allowing us to maneuver our large travel trailer with increased safety and much more confidence. We were so glad that our RV came with one as an upgrade during the manufacturing process. However, there are lots of companies that make great RV cameras that you can add on.
The camera lets you see behind you from inside your vehicle, eliminating almost all blind spots and taking away much of the stress associated with driving such a large vehicle. We now feel safer and much better prepared for any unexpected situations on the road.
16. Portable air compressor
Flat Tire? Say no more. One of the most essential additions every RVer should have is a portable air compressor. As anyone who drives an RV should know, proper tire inflation is always important and can have a significant impact on safe travel. A good quality portable air compressor can perform quick tire deflation and inflation whenever it is needed and make any RV trip much safer.
It’s an easy piece of technology that runs off 12V battery power, making it relatively lightweight and easily transportable to whatever camping ground our adventure takes us. Taking a few minutes for regular checks not only ensures our tires are in optimal condition for the road ahead.
17. Propane Monitors
If you’ve ever RVed before, you know how important it is to have a full tank of propane. After all, propane powers your stove, oven, fridge, and hot water heater—all the essentials for a comfortable camping trip. But what happens when you run out of propane in the middle of the night? That’s where propane monitors come in.
Propane monitors are an essential upgrade that can improve the safety of your RV. They allow you to see how much propane is left in your tank so you don’t run out unexpectedly. Most models will even give you an accurate reading of how many hours of propane you have left, so you can plan accordingly.
If you’re looking for even more tips on how to stay safe on the road, be sure to check out our dedicated post on RV safety supplies for full-time living.
Upgraded RV Power Solutions
Another important upgrade for those going full-time in an RV is power solutions. Most RVs come equipped with battery systems that run off 12V DC power, which is great for powering lights and small appliances such as TVs or lights. But if you plan on living in your RV long-term, then you’re going to need more power than what’s supplied by a typical 12V system. Here are our recommendations for upgraded power solutions.
18. Inverter
An inverter is a crucial component for full-time RVing off the grid because it allows you to convert the DC power stored in your RV’s batteries into AC power that can be used to power your appliances and electronics. Without an inverter, you would not be able to use many of the devices and appliances that make RVing a comfortable and convenient experience.
We went with an Inverter from Victron, a well-known brand in the RV industry that offers high-quality inverters with advanced features such as remote monitoring, multi-stage battery charging, and more.
19. Solar Panels
Solar panels can provide a convenient and sustainable source of energy for your RV while you are on the road. Many 4 season travel trailers for full-time living come with solar panels, like our 28DBS Outdoors RV. However, if you have an older RV, or one that simply did not come with solar panels, we highly recommend installing solar panels, especially if you plan to be boondocking in your RV.
20. Generator
This piece of equipment has saved our butts more times than I can count. For starters, a generator is perfect for boondocking since we have no way of getting additional power in the middle of nowhere. But with a generator, we can create our own power source and keep on truckin’, no matter what.
And it’s not just about backup power, either. Our generator is also great for running high-power appliances like our microwave or air conditioner. Plus, it can be used to recharge our RV battery, which is a total lifesaver in the winter when daylight is shorter and our solar panels don’t get a full charge.
Oh, and did I mention our generator is a Generac? These guys are the real deal. Not only are they reliable and durable, but they’re also super bougie with an e-start, and I love it. There’s nothing quite like firing up that bad boy with just the push of a button.
21. Lithium Batteries
Gone are the days of heavy, bulky lead-acid batteries that require constant maintenance and replacements. Nowadays, we’ve got options that are sleek, low-maintenance, and have a longer lifespan than ever before. I’m talking about lithium batteries, my friends. Our top picks for lithium batteries are Battle Born and Renogy—these power-packed little wonders are the superheroes of the RV world.
Best Upgrades for RV Boondocking
When it comes to boondocking, comfort is key. With the right upgrades for your outdoor RV gear, you can make full time RV living much more enjoyable and pleasant.
22. Outdoor grill
Personally, I’m a big fan of propane grills. They’re easy to use, easy to clean, and they heat up quickly, which is perfect when you’re hungry and don’t want to wait around for your food to cook. Plus, they’re so versatile—you can grill up burgers, hot dogs, veggies, and even ribs if you’re feeling fancy.
But hey, I know some of you are die-hard charcoal fans, and I respect that. There are plenty of portable grills on the market that are designed specifically for use on the road.
23. Propane firepit
Let’s face it —starting a fire from scratch can be a pain. And, depending on where you’re camping, it might not even be allowed. That’s where propane firepits come in. They’re a game-changer when it comes to enjoying an outdoor fire safely and conveniently. Propane firepits come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs and preferences. Some even come with cooking grates, so you can whip up some delicious campfire meals right there on the spot.
And, if you’re just looking for some warmth or ambiance, they’re perfect for that too. But, one of the best things about propane firepits is how safe they are. Unlike traditional fires, there’s no need to worry about sparks flying or embers burning nearby objects. Plus, they’re easy to start and extinguish, so you don’t have to spend hours fiddling with kindling and dousing the fire at the end of the night.
24. RV Outdoor Rug
One of the best things about outdoor rugs is how they can instantly add some color, texture, and comfort to your outdoor living area. No more walking on rough or dirty ground —now you can enjoy the soft, cushy feel of a rug under your feet. Plus, outdoor rugs are available in a range of sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your RV’s specific needs and aesthetic.
25. Folding camp table
First of all, let’s talk about how compact and lightweight these tables are. They fold up neatly and can be stashed away in even the tiniest of RV storage compartments.
And when you’re ready to use it, it’s a breeze to set up—no complicated assembly required. Just unfold it and you’re good to go. The convenience of having a folding camp table in your RV cannot be overstated. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a meal outdoors, play some cards with your camping buddies, or work on a project, this table has got you covered.
RV Upgrades for Staying Connected
I could sit here and rattle off a list of cell phone boosters and jetpacks that might do the trick for getting you some internet on the road. But let’s be real, who’s got time for that? I sure don’t, and I value your time just as much. So, let me cut right through the BS and get straight to the point. There’s only one product you need for getting internet on the road…
26. Starlink!
If you’ve ever tried to work while traveling full-time in an RV, you know the struggle is real. Slow internet speeds, spotty connections, and losing signal in the middle of nowhere – it’s enough to make you want to tear your hair out. But let me tell you, with Starlink, all of that frustration is a thing of the past.
No more relying on Jetpacks and Cell phone boosters to get even a semblance of a decent signal. Starlink is like having home Wi-Fi anywhere you go, and it’s super fast and reliable. I’m talking lightning-fast speeds that rival anything you’d get in a city apartment. Plus, the connection is rock-solid no matter where we are.
And after having it for a year, we’re never going back. I mean, why would we? With Starlink, we can stay connected to the world without cell signal and keep our online businesses thriving, all while living the RV dream. It’s like having our cake and eating it too. So, if you’re still struggling with slow internet speeds on the road, do yourself a favor and invest in Starlink. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
RV Comfort Solution Upgrades
While I love the freedom and adventure that comes with life on the road, there are definitely times when I crave a little more comfort. With a few simple additions, I can turn my home on wheels into a cozy little haven that I never want to leave. Here are our comfort solutions that will greatly improve your quality of life while living in an RV full-time.
27. Vacuum Cleaner
Keeping your RV clean on the road is a constant battle. Dust, dirt, and debris seem to have a way of sneaking their way in no matter how hard you try to keep them out. There are many portable vacuums available that are designed specifically for use in RVs, including handheld and stick vacuums.
28. RV Mattress
When it comes to living in an RV let me tell you one thing— RV mattresses are no bueno! They are usually made with lower-quality materials and are about as comfortable as sleeping on a bag of rocks. If you plan on living full-time in your RV or even taking extended trips, you definitely want to upgrade that sad excuse of a mattress. Trust me, your back will thank you.
29. Camp Chairs
Is there anything better than kicking back in a comfy chair, roasting marshmallows over the campfire, and gazing up at the stars? We think not.
Folding camp chairs are an absolute must-have for RV living. Not only are they great for lounging around the campfire, but they’re also perfect for sitting outside your RV to enjoy the scenery or taking to the beach for a day of sun and sand. And let’s not forget about the convenience factor – these chairs are lightweight and portable, so you can easily pack them up and take them wherever your adventures take you.
Essential Upgrades For Towing
30. Weight Distribution Hitch (Sway Bars)
You’re cruising down the highway, towing your precious cargo behind you, when suddenly, a gust of wind hits your trailer from the side. Without sway bars, you could be in for a wild ride, as your trailer starts to sway back and forth like a bucking bronco.
This is why sway bars are essential for towing. These devices attach to your trailer and help to distribute weight evenly, preventing that dangerous side-to-side motion that can send you careening off the road. So don’t let your trailer get the best of you—invest in some quality sway bars and hit the road like a pro.
Our Top RV Upgrades for Full-Time Living
Never underestimate the power of a few strategic upgrades when it comes to full-time RV living. The right additions can elevate your home on wheels from a basic mode of transportation to a comfortable and sustainable sanctuary.
By investing in solar panels, lithium batteries, leveling systems, and a comfortable matress, you can improve your quality of life on the road while saving time, money, and energy. So why settle for a mediocre RV experience when you can have it all? Take the leap and make these top RV upgrades to transform your nomadic lifestyle into the adventure of a lifetime.
We’ve shared our top RV upgrades, and now we want to hear from you. Have you tackled any upgrades to make your home on wheels more comfortable, efficient, or stylish? Drop a comment down below and share your tips, tricks, and favorite upgrades with the community.
