RVwest Reg DeYoung Ask an RV Tech

Ten great gifts for RVers

by Reg DeYoung

Many people spend hours searching for the ideal gift to buy their friends and family members. If you are like most people you will likely shop at the mall or a department store. One shopping option most folks don't think about is an RV store.

There are many products and accessories in an RV store or dealership that make great gifts. The prices are favourable and these products are greatly appreciated by seasonal and weekend RVers alike.

Here is a list of 10 nifty items that are useful for any RV enthusiast.

  1. RV cleaning supplies ($7.99+)

    There are many products available to keep your RV clean and well protected. Some cleaners are specially designed for RV components such as awnings or those pesky black streaks on the sidewalls. There are also protectants available for slide seals or rubber roofs.

  2. Nylon Slik-Disc ($12.95)

    These nylon discs are installed on the fifth wheel pin to take the place of grease. They install in seconds and reduce wear in this area.

  3. Fire extinguishers ($20.99+)

    All RVs should have a fire extinguisher available—and in good working order. They should be checked regularly and be easily accessible. Make sure you purchase the proper extinguisher for RV use.

  4. Coupler locks ($25.00+)

    These will provide extra theft protection for your RV. They are available for both the fifth wheel or ball coupler set-ups. They are key locked and constructed in a very durable manner.

  5. Emergency response kits ($38.00+)

    These kits are well—stocked with medical supplies usually not readily available during an emergency. Many off these kits are quite compact and won't take up a lot of room in your RV.

  6. Max-Air vents ($44.95)

    These add—on vents are installed over your existing roof vents. They will allow for ventilation during travelling or while parked in inclement weather.

  7. Tote-along tanks ($97.00+)

    These tanks are available in a portable carry size right up to one that is pulled behind your tow vehicle. In RV Parks without serviced lots these tanks will allow you to dump your waste tanks without the bother of moving your RV to the nearest sani—dump.

  8. Stabilizer jacks ($179.00+)

    These add—on jacks will provide a more stable RV and are easily installed. They are built in a scissor or cross bar set—up.

  9. Light-duty generators ($700.00+)

    Although these smaller generators will not provide enough power for your air conditioner, they will give you an additional 110 volt power source for your RV and will also charge the batteries with a built—in circuit in some cases.

  10. Solar panels ($900.00+)

    These panels will charge your RV batteries during the day. They are available in many different wattages and are usually supplied with a regulator to monitor the battery condition and activate the charge circuit when required so that the batteries will not be over—charged.