21 Low Cost RV and Camping Items That Make Every Trip Easier (Under $50)
Before you hit the road on your camping trip, pick up these low budget items to make your trip much more enjoyable.
If you’re new to RVing (or just tired of forgetting the little things), you don’t need to spend thousands to upgrade your experience.
In fact, some of the best RV upgrades cost under $50—and can save you time, stress, and even money on the road.
We’ve researched dozens of budget RV essentials, and these are the ones actually worth buying.
Quick Pick: If you only grab one item, make it a surge protector—it can save your entire RV electrical system.
1. RV Surge Protector (Protect Your Entire Setup)
Best for: Every RV owner (non-negotiable)
Protects against power spikes at campgrounds
Easy plug-and-play setup
Can prevent thousands in damage
Why it matters: Campground power can be unreliable. This is one of those “buy it before you need it” items.
2. Drinking Water Hose (Safe, Clean Water)
Best for: Cooking, drinking, filling tanks
Lead-free and BPA-free
Designed specifically for RV use
Won’t leave a weird taste
3. RV Toilet Paper (Septic-Safe Essential)
Best for: Protecting your black tank
Breaks down quickly
Prevents clogs and backups
Safer than regular toilet paper
4. Water Pressure Regulator
Best for: Avoiding pipe damage
Controls high campground water pressure
Protects RV plumbing
Brass versions last longer
5. Extension Cord (Heavy-Duty Power Access)
Best for: Flexible campsite setup
Gives you more parking options
Weather-resistant
Great backup to have
6. Collapsible Dish Tub (Space Saver)
Best for: Small RV kitchens
Folds flat for storage
Multi-use (dishes, laundry, cleaning)
Lightweight and durable
7. Budget Camping Chairs
Best for: Relaxing outside your RV
Comfortable and portable
Cup holders included
Easy setup
8. Compact RV Broom & Dustpan
Best for: Keeping dirt out
Small but effective
Clips together for storage
Essential for daily cleanup
9. LED Flashlights or Headlamps
Best for: Night setup and emergencies
Hands-free options available
Long battery life
Super useful at night
10. Magnetic Hooks (Game-Changer Storage Hack)
Best for: Extra storage without drilling
Works on metal surfaces
Hang towels, keys, gear
Strong and reusable
💡 Pro tip: These are one of the easiest ways to add storage instantly.
11. Sewer Hose
Best for: Cleaner dumping process
Keeps proper drainage
Easily dump black water system
Required at some campgrounds
12. Fire Extinguisher (Safety First)
Best for: Emergency preparedness
Small and easy to store
Essential safety item
Peace of mind
13. Small Cooler
Best for: Day trips and extra storage
Keeps drinks cold
Great for picnics or beach days
Easy to carry
14. RV-Friendly Black Tank Supplies
Best for: Keeping your RV in top shape
Safe for RV Tanks
Prevents bathroom odors
Keeps things fresh in the bathroom
15. RV-Friendly Cleaning Supplies
Best for: Keeping your RV in top shape
Safe for RV surfaces
Prevents wear and tear
Keeps things fresh
16. Portable Phone Charger
Best for: Staying powered off-grid
Great for hiking or travel days
Compact and reliable
Charges multiple devices
17. Sewer hose support system
Easier for drainage system
Required at some campgrounds
Keeps proper drainage
18. Hammock
Perfect for snoozing around the campsite
Lightweight
Easy to pack in your hiking backpack
19. Lighters/Fire starter
Makes starting campfires much easier
Easy to keep on hand
Always need one when you don’t have one
👉 Check price on Amazon - Fire Starter
Check price on Amazon - BIC Lighter pack
20. Camping Table
Always needed when cooking s’mores around the fire
Great to have when lounging around the site
Always need to set something down when camping
21. Hatchet
You always need one for making kindling
Great tool to have on hand
Easy to carry when backpacking
Final Thoughts: Small Upgrades = Big Impact
You don’t need expensive upgrades to enjoy RV life. These low-cost items: Save time, reduce stress, prevent costly repairs, and make your trips way more comfortable. Start with 2–3 essentials, and build from there.
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