35 Small Things That Make a Big Impact on the Road

Over the last decade on the road, I’ve come to realize something most new RVers don’t expect: it’s not the big rigs or high-end gadgets that save the day—it’s the little things. The unsung heroes of your trip. The gear you never think to pack until you desperately need it at a campsite two hours from the nearest hardware store.

And beyond gear? I’ve also learned the value of a comprehensive trip protection plan and access to on-the-road services ahead of time. Those alone have saved me more than once—from roadside breakdowns, tire blowouts, to interior mishaps. 📲 Trust me: peace of mind is the most powerful thing you can pack.

Here’s a seasoned RVer’s take on 35 small, easy-to-forget items that can make a big difference in your next adventure.

1. Basic Tool Box Not flashy, but absolutely essential. A few screwdrivers, pliers, a wrench, zip ties, and duct tape go a long way when a cabinet hinge loosens or your sewer hose clamp needs tightening.
2. RV Surge Protector Plug into a sketchy campground pedestal without one and you might fry your electrical system. Get a 30 or 50 amp protector—your appliances will thank you.
3. Water Pressure Regulator Think of this as a bodyguard for your pipes. Some hookups blast water like a fire hose. A regulator ensures your water system stays intact.
4. Portable Water Filter Even with onboard filtration, I always carry a portable backup. Clean water is non-negotiable—plus it saves money and plastic.
5. Foldable Rake Level your site, clear out debris, or even knock down a small fire. Folds flat and tucks into a bin. You’ll be glad you brought it.
6. Portable Air Compressor Keep your tires inflated and your stress levels down. I’ve also used mine to blow off picnic tables and campfire gear.
7. Bluetooth Speaker Good tunes make for a great evening under the stars. Just keep the volume neighbor-friendly.
8. Trip Planner (Paper + Digital) Apps are great—until you lose service. A paper map doesn’t crash. Bonus: mark your travels like an old-school explorer.
9. White Noise Machine Not everyone sleeps soundly at new sites. This tiny gadget drowns out campground noise for a better night’s rest.
10. Long Jumper Cables or Jump Starter One of those "hope I never need it, glad I have it" items. A jump starter is even better if you're boondocking.
11. Emergency Radio Storms, wildfires, flash floods—when things get serious, a NOAA radio keeps you informed.
12. Folding Step Stool Great for fixing awnings, checking roof seals, or grabbing the coffee you shoved into the high cabinet.
13. Welding Gloves Campfires, hot grills, or your generator—these gloves handle heat and rough work with ease.
14. Fuel Station Finder App Skip the stress and plan fuel stops with apps that show RV-friendly stations and exits.
15. Duct Tape The fix-anything MVP of RV life. Don’t leave home without it.
16. Space Heater Sometimes your furnace isn’t enough—or worth the propane. A small electric heater keeps things cozy.
17. Compact Fan Perfect for mild days when A/C is overkill. Great airflow with a small footprint.
18. Small Washing Machine Full-timer’s luxury, part-timer’s dream. Great for small loads and saves you trips to campground laundromats.
19. Travel Foot Massager After long hikes or a day behind the wheel, this is your reward. Small. Lightweight. Surprisingly effective.
20. Rain Gear Keep a poncho and boots ready—you’ll thank yourself when weather rolls in mid-hike.
21. Comfy Bedding Good sleep equals good travel. Bring a pillow you actually like.
22. Fly Swatter Low-tech and incredibly satisfying. You’ll use it more than you think.
23. Bug Repellent Mosquitos love campground dinners. Keep them away so you can enjoy your night.
24. Silverware You’d be surprised how many people forget it. Don’t be that person.
25. Stabilizers Wobbly rigs are no fun. Stabilizer pads keep your RV planted.
26. Comfy Camping Chairs A good chair turns a regular campsite into your living room with a view.
27. Spare Key / Hide-A-Key Hide one outside, leave one with a trusted friend, and avoid locking yourself out in flip-flops.
28. Zip Ties These little guys secure cables, hold things together, and work in a pinch when something breaks.
29. Lighter or Matches For the stove, firepit, or that emergency birthday cake candle.
30. Paper Towels You’ll use them for everything—spills, messes, quick cleanups.
31. Can Opener The most forgotten item in RV kitchens. Don’t let your chili go uneaten.
32. Pot Holders Cooking on the road still involves heat. Protect those hands.
33. Heavy-Duty Trash Bags For campsite cleanup, storing dirty gear, or emergency ponchos.
34. Corkscrew End-of-day wine should not require MacGyvering.
35. Dog Poop Bags Even if you don’t have a dog, they’re great for trash, wet clothes, and strong-smelling leftovers.

Final Word from the Road: Packing for an RV trip isn’t just about space—it’s about intention. These small, often overlooked items don’t take up much room, but they’ll come through for you time and time again. And while gear helps, having trip protection in place before you roll out—from emergency roadside assistance to surface care and onsite tire repair coverage—can truly be a trip saver. It’s the smart way to RV the worry-free way.

Safe travels, 🚍 🛠 Mike Reynolds!

Mike Reynolds is a full-time RVer, road safety advocate, and long-time explorer of the highways and hidden gems of North America. With over a decade of experience on the road, Mike shares real-world advice, maintenance know-how, and travel-tested tips to help RVers stay prepared, safe, and stress-free.