Small Changes, Big Comfort
Tired of feeling cramped or uncomfortable during your RV trips? It's a common struggle many travelers know all too well. Fortunately, small yet meaningful upgrades can significantly improve your road-bound lifestyle. Ready for inspiration to turn your ordinary RV into an extraordinary home on wheels? Let's explore your options!
1. Solar Power System
Bold sunlight streaming endlessly provides more than scenery. It's free, renewable energy. Installing a solar power system enables off-grid camping for extended periods. Besides cutting fuel use and generator noise, solar setups extend battery life and reduce campsite dependence, particularly in remote areas.
RV Solar System Lessons Learned by Never Stop Adventuring
2. Lithium Battery Upgrade
Have traditional RV batteries left you frustrated? Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries offer five to ten times the lifespan of lead-acid models, plus better performance in extreme temperatures. Though the upfront cost is high, long-term savings and fewer replacements make them a top-tier choice for full-time RVers.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) 120Ah Grade A Cell Capacity Testing! by electronicsNmore
3. RV Wi-Fi Booster
Staying connected while traveling helps preserve these memorable moments. A quality Wi-Fi booster extends weak campground signals and improves video call stability. Some boosters also offer 4G LTE capability to provide backup access when public Wi-Fi is unreliable.
4. Backup Camera System
A multi-angle backup camera with night vision and a wide dynamic range can significantly reduce accidents and property damage. Wireless systems simplify installation, making the setup process easier. Moreover, models like the Furrion Vision S offer reliable long-range signals with split-screen viewing.
5. LED Lighting Upgrade
A simple lighting upgrade can brighten an RV and make it feel more welcoming. LED bulbs offer an energy-efficient alternative, consuming 90% less power and lasting up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. These lights generate less heat, easing the load on the cooling system.
6. Slide-Out Awning Covers
Slide-out awning toppers shield the extension seams from leaves, water, and UV rays. Made from tough vinyl or acrylic, they also prevent pooling, which leads to water damage. Brands like Carefree and Lippert offer automatic and manual options that reduce maintenance and protect slide mechanisms.
Installing Solera RV Slide Toppers | DIY Awning Cover Install by RCRV
7. Tankless Water Heater
Instant hot showers after long drives sound heavenly, especially without bulky tanks taking up precious space. Tankless systems heat water only when needed to eliminate standby energy loss. Units like Girard GSWH-2 and Truma AquaGo provide near-instant hot water with adjustable temperatures.
Girard GSWH-2 RV Water Heater | E03 Error Code | ECO Sensor | RV Repairs | Lance by MericaIndo
8. Upgraded RV Mattress
RV mattresses notoriously sacrifice comfort for convenience. Replacing them with memory foam or hybrid models can greatly improve sleep quality. Custom sizing options accommodate odd-shaped beds while cooling gels and zoned support ensure restful sleep. A proper mattress helps prevent back pain and travel fatigue.
9. Digital Thermostat
Adjusting temperatures manually feels outdated. A digital thermostat offers programmable settings and more precise temperature management. It reduces energy waste and helps maintain stable interior climates, whether you're heating with propane or cooling with shore power.
10. Composting Toilet Installation
Water scarcity and waste disposal concerns frequently plague RV travelers. Composting toilets use no water and separate liquids from solids to minimize odor. They extend boondocking stays by reducing black tank use and require minimal power. Coconut coir or peat moss aids in breakdown, which makes them an eco-conscious alternative to conventional systems.
How to install a composting toilet into a four wheel camper! by Roam Overland Vehicles
11. RV Tire Pressure Monitor
Neglecting tire conditions can swiftly end vacations in disaster. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) show real-time data to alert drivers to issues like slow leaks or overheating. Models like TST 507 and EEZTire are favored for their accuracy and range.
12. Suspension Enhancement
The road shouldn't feel like a never-ending rumble strip. Upgrading to heavy-duty shocks, SumoSprings, or MORryde suspension systems minimizes bounce and vibration. Improved ride quality protects cabinetry and makes towing more stable. It's an upgrade that both your spine and storage bins will thank you for.
13. Vent Fan Replacement
Swapping outdated fans for high-efficiency models like Maxxair or Fantastic Vent can dramatically improve airflow. Rain sensors and remote controls provide added convenience, simplifying operation and enhancing ease of use. These upgrades also help reduce condensation and enhance ventilation in cooking and showering areas.
14. Keyless Entry System
Juggling bags, pets, and keys at the RV door is a hassle. Keyless entry systems simplify access using keypads or fobs. Many even allow smartphone integration. These systems boost security, too, by allowing code changes anytime and eliminating the risk of misplaced or stolen keys.
15. RV Water Filtration
Not all campground water is created equal. Built-in water filtration systems like Clearsource or Camco TastePURE remove sediment and bacteria. Dual- or triple-stage filters ensure every drop is safer and better tasting. This protects your appliances and provides consistent water quality no matter where you hook up.
BEST RV Water Filter Systems Review💧(Ultimate 2023 Guide) by Freshnss
16. Entertainment System Upgrade
Movie nights shouldn't feel like rewinding to the early 2000s. Upgrading to smart TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and soundbars brings a theater-like experience to your RV. Pair that with satellite dishes or streaming devices for on-demand access to shows and music.
17. Retractable RV Steps
Rusted or shaky steps present tripping risks and reduce visual appeal. Electric or manual retractable systems from Lippert or Stromberg Carlson enhance both safety and style. With anti-slip surfaces and adjustable heights, they provide smoother entry, particularly for those with mobility issues.
New Pivoting & Folding RV Steps - Enhanced Design by Charles Coushaine
18. Propane Tank Sensors
Guessing your propane level can be risky, especially during critical moments like cooking or heating. Mopeka Pro's magnetic or inline sensors connect to an app for accurate, real-time tracking. The system alerts you when it’s time to refill, so you're always prepared for extended stays or off-grid camping.
RV Propane Sensor Replacement by Leisure Travel Vans RV Tips & Equipment by Curtis
19. Improved Storage Solutions
The best way to manage RV clutter is through slide-out trays and custom shelving from MORryde or clever IKEA hacks. These space-saving solutions provide organized storage, offer quick access to essentials, and prevent shifting while driving. All of this contributes to a tidier and more functional living space without expanding your RV’s size.
20. Exterior RV Wrap
Looks matter, even on the road. Vinyl wraps protect your RV's factory paint from sun damage, road debris, and scratches. Custom designs add personality, while solid colors can give older rigs a modern facelift. Wraps are removable and cost-effective, so they are an innovative, stylish way to maintain resale value and curb appeal.
