As with any home, I’m sure you will want to customize and upgrade certain features at some point. There are endless things that you can upgrade, and the prices can vary. While full-time RVing over the past four years, we’ve found several items that have made RV living more convenient and enjoyable. We made a list of our top 25 recommendations for the best RV upgrades and modifications, ranked by price and value. Let’s explain our ranking system first.
Price
Each RV upgrade is ranked with a number of dollar signs, ranging from the least expensive upgrades ($) to the most expensive ($$$$$).
- $: under $50
- $$: $50-$99
- $$$: $100-$199
- $$$$: $200-$399
- $$$$$: $400+
Value
We rated each RV modification based on how much value it has brought to our camping trips. We are full-time RVers, so we may feel that some of these are well worth the cost.
- One Star = Nice addition
- Two Stars = Makes a big difference
- Three Stars = Use it all the time/highly recommend
Top 25 RV Upgrades
Here are our personal ratings for the 25 best RV upgrades, based on cost and benefit, in no particular order.
1. RV Backup Camera
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Three Stars
This is extremely beneficial and highly recommended for all RVers. Having a wireless RV backup camera helps when parking and traveling down the interstate. Some RVs come with these cameras already installed, but many more are prepped for them. This means the manufacturer has pre-wired the RV and included a mounting location at the top of the rear wall. With this work done, you can also easily install an RV backup camera yourself.
2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Price: $$$$
- Value: Three Stars
One of all RVers’ biggest fears is having a tire blow out while traveling down the highway. We are now at ease on travel days because we upgraded our camper with one of the best TPMS for RV use. It constantly keeps us updated on our tire pressure and temperature, warning us of potential problems. It’s a huge peace of mind.
3. Surge Protector
- Price: $$$
- Value: Three Stars
A surge protector is one of the most important safety upgrades an RVer can purchase. They help protect your electrical system from fires and damage. We have a Hughes Power Watchdog EPO and absolutely recommend it. They will vary in price based on the number of amps your RV uses, brand, and if it has emergency power-off features. This is another one of those must-have RV electronics that are worth every penny. It’s also something you will use every day when your RV is connected to power or even connected to a generator.
4. Weight Distribution System
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Three Stars
A weight distribution system is a must-have RV upgrade if your trailer’s loaded weight is more than half of your tow vehicle’s weight. We don’t tow anything large without one, which helps with level towing and reduced sway. There’s a major difference between towing a heavy camper with and without a weight distribution hitch. You’ll feel it almost immediately when you come up to speed, and more level towing can also improve your overall fuel economy on long road trips. Here are a few resources to help you choose the right travel trailer hitch for your towing setup:
- Choosing a Weight Distribution Hitch
- Sway Control vs Weight Distribution
- How To Set Up a Weight Distribution Hitch
- What Is a Wireless Brake Controller?
5. RV Mattress Upgrade
- Price: $$$$
- Value: Three Stars
This is definitely highly recommended and used daily by us as full-timers. The price will vary depending on how much you’re willing to spend on comfort, but this upgrade is a must. We went with a mattress-in-a-box type mattress and immediately experienced a better night’s sleep. Many RV bedroom accessories can help you enjoy better sleep in your camper, but a mattress is definitely #1. Here are a few more resources to help you choose your ideal RV mattress upgrade:
6. Tankless Water Heater
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Three Stars
For full-timers like us, having access to endless hot water would be amazing. This is one upgrade that we have always wanted to pursue and it is on our list. RV hot water tanks are small, at 6-12 gallons, and run out quickly. An on-demand RV water heater provides an endless supply of hot water instantly. If you are at a full hook-up site, this means you can take as long of showers as you please. This would be an even more beneficial upgrade for larger families!
7. Slide Topper
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Two Stars
Some RVs already come with installed slide toppers or awnings over the slide-outs. Ours didn’t, so we installed one ourselves. Not only does this help prevent tree debris from gathering on the slide’s roof, but it also helps prevent leaks by protecting the slide from rain. It also keeps the sun from beating directly on your slide-out’s roof and may even keep your RV cooler. Before installing our slide topper, we experienced a couple of leaks through our slide during a severe storm. Having our slide topper has helped prevent any further slide-out leaks.
8. Solar Set Up
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Two Stars
We absolutely love camping off-grid and do so frequently. Solar panels allow us to keep a full battery while camping, go for several days without needing to be connected to shore power, and not run a generator. Here are a few resources to help you plan the ideal solar charging system for your RV:
9. Portable Generator
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Three Stars
This RV upgrade is specific to owners of towable campers without an onboard generator. Unless you have a motorhome that provides the convenience of pushing a button on the interior control panel to crank the generator, a portable generator is a must-have RV upgrade. This is especially true for those interested in boondocking, camping at Harvest Host locations, or staying anywhere else where electrical hookups aren’t available. Here are a few resources to help you find a generator that can provide sufficient power for your RV:
10. RV Lithium Battery Upgrade
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Three Stars
We upgraded to a lithium iron phosphate battery over a lead-acid battery for a few reasons. Although more expensive, they are less maintenance, have a longer lifespan, and most importantly, you can use more of the battery capacity. They’re lower maintenance because you no longer have to worry about watering your battery. Certain lithium batteries weigh half the weight of a lead-acid battery.
Lead-acid batteries allow you to use only about half of the battery; discharging them beyond halfway can be damaging. With a lithium battery, you can use almost the full battery capacity without worrying about damaging it, which allows for a much longer lifespan. Our lithium battery has made boondocking so much easier thanks to its large power capacity. Our RV battery upgrade was worth every penny.
11. Portable Power Station
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Two Stars
Portable power stations for camping are convenient when appliances must be powered away from power sources. They are essentially portable power banks that allow you to have power on the go. They’re a great alternative to a gas generator for running appliances or keeping gear charged. Some things we power with our portable power stations are coffee pots, toaster ovens, camera gear, laptops, and phones.
Portable power station costs vary depending on brand and power output. Aim for a power station rated for 1500 watts if you want to power a coffee pot or cooking appliances. If you only want to charge your gear, you can aim for a 250 or 500-watt power bank. Our favorite brands are Jackery and EcoFlow. Here’s a review of the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max power station.
12. RV AC Upgrade
- Price: $$ to $$$$
- Value: Two Stars
This is one of our biggest comfort hacks for RVers. You aren’t stuck to the air conditioner installed by the manufacturer. Many systems are pre-wired for an RV AC upgrade. Sure, you’ll need to check with your manufacturer to understand the limitations of the electrical system. But they can help you understand the specifications to look for a compatible aftermarket RV air conditioner. Here are a few resources to help you boost the cooling power inside your RV:
- Choosing an RV Air Conditioner
- Can the RV Airflow System Improve AC Efficiency?
- Do You Need an RV Air Conditioner Soft Start?
Additionally, if you’ve ever felt uncomfortably sticky and your RV just didn’t feel cool despite your AC running non-stop — a dehumidifier may be the solution. We’ve lived in several places that had triple-digit temperatures and high humidity! After lowering the humidity inside our RV from 100% to 30%, our camper miraculously felt so much cooler and more comfortable. We recommend one that has the capability of removing at least 30 pints of moisture from the air per day. Check out our recommendation for finding the best dehumidifier for RV.
13. RV Temperature Monitoring System
- Price: $$
- Value: Three Stars
A temperature monitoring system is a must-have for all RVers traveling with pets. We use this device to ensure that the RV temperature is safe for our cat. You never know when your RV may lose power, so having this device helps us ensure comfort and safety for our fur baby. Our RV pet temperature monitor operates over Wi-Fi and sends us text and email notifications if the temperature limit we programmed is reached.
14. RV Vent Fan
- Price: $$$$
- Value: Three Stars
Aftermarket RV roof vent fans are available that you can install in your RV vent to replace those that come with it. They are much stronger and help with better air movement and circulation, both of which help cool down your RV. Some of the most common brands are MaxxAir and Fan-Tastic Fan. We installed one in our truck camper, and we rarely ever have to use our AC because it does such a great job circulating the air and keeping our camper cool.
Some fans offer rain detection. When it senses rain, the vent automatically closes to prevent rain from entering your RV. While this is a cool feature, it also means you can’t circulate air during rain storms. We recommend choosing a fan with a built-in cover or installing a vent cover over the vent. That way, you can still run the fan during inclement weather.
15. RV Shower Head Upgrade
- Price: $
- Value: Three Stars
Upgrading to a new shower head is beneficial for many reasons! Choose one that is designed to save water and preserve hot water. They also have options where you can regulate your water pressure for a better water stream when showering. This is an extremely affordable and easy upgrade that you’ll thank us for every time you shower. We have the Camco shower head with an on/off switch. This shower head is a huge upgrade compared to the original one on our RV.
16. RV Entertainment System Upgrade
- Price: $$$
- Value: One Star
Having your TV connected to a swivel mount means that you can turn and reposition your TV to face several directions. This is really beneficial if you’re someone who loves to wind down in the evenings and watch TV. Before we installed this RV entertainment system upgrade, we couldn’t see the full screen from our RV furniture because it was at an angle from the TV. Now we can watch the TV straight on thanks to a TV swivel mount! If you don’t want to mount a TV in your RV yourself, you can have it installed at a Camping World Service Center.
17. RV Screen Door Upgrades
- Price: $
- Value: Two Stars
From a protector that prevents your pets from running through the screen to an RV screen door latch upgrade, there are a few RV door modifications we love. Screen door damage is almost inevitable when you own an RV, but these upgrades will help you avoid it. Here are our recommendations:
- Install a screen defender to protect the bottom square of the screen.
- Add a screen door push bar to make it easier to open and close without stressing the built-in handle.
- Upgrade with a screen assist that automatically closes the door when you leave, protecting it from wind damage.
- Keep your screen door closed when not entering and exiting. An open door is much more likely to be damaged.
If your screen is already damaged, here’s how to find an RV screen door replacement.
18. RV Keyless Entry Lock
- Price: $$$
- Value: Three Stars
This is something that every RVer needs. Did you know that most RVs use the same universal key to unlock the doors and compartments? It’s true! Having an RV lock not only helps keep you safer, but it’s also convenient. No more worrying about locking yourself out or forgetting the key. Just enter your own custom code and you can have quick, easy access to your RV.
19. Electric Cooler
- Price: $$$$
- Value: Two Stars
RV refrigerators come in several different sizes. Ours is only six cubic feet. Since we are full-time, having our Camco 350 electric cooler helps us maximize our refrigerator and freezer space. It’s been so nice to have the extra food storage, and it fits perfectly underneath our fridge without taking up too much additional space. It’s something we use every day and is extremely beneficial for us to have. These refrigerators can either be used as freezers or refrigerators, depending on what temperature you set them on. We like using ours as additional freezer space to store more frozen goods.
20. Portable Propane Fire Pit
- Price: $$
- Value: Three Stars
This is one of our favorite RV items! Propane fire pits for camping are absolute game-changers when it comes to camping. You don’t have to worry about firewood, smoke, or clean-up. In just seconds, you can have a blazingly, warm fire anywhere. When you’re done, just turn it off. It’s that simple, and that’s why it gets our vote for one of the best campfire accessories. Here are some reviews of our favorite portable propane fire pits:
21. Blackstone Griddle
- Price: $$$
- Value: Three Stars
The majority of our cooking is done outside on our Blackstone griddle. From grilling steaks and burgers to sautéing veggies for fried rice — the Blackstone does it all! Grills and griddles are becoming more and more popular in the RV community, and it’s a no-brainer as to why. They’re affordable and compact, making them the perfect griddle for RVers. Blackstone also makes a number of grilling accessories to go with their griddles and make your outdoor cooking experience a breeze. Here are a few reviews of our favorite Blackstone products:
22. Small RV Kitchen Appliances
- Price: $$
- Value: One Star
Some RVs have built-in ice makers on the refrigerators. Our does not. We could easily freeze ice the old-school way, but having our own portable ice maker is a nice change. It’s easy and efficient and a great way to have refreshing drinks in the summer.
While you’re at it, evaluate the other RV kitchen upgrades that might improve your camp cooking experience. If your RV only has a two-burner cooktop, an electric griddle can be handy for big family breakfasts. If you love toast in the mornings, a toaster makes grab-and-go breakfasts much quicker.
23. RV Wi-Fi Upgrade
- Price: $$$$$
- Value: Two Stars
Many campgrounds offer reliable Wi-Fi as a perk. But there are plenty of times when campground Wi-Fi has been unreliable, or we’ve camped off-grid and still need a connection. With the increase in remote work, we imagine many other RVers want reliable internet where they camp. Luckily, there are many solutions to this problem. To name a few options: you can install a Starlink Wi-Fi antenna, use a cell signal booster to increase signal when using your smartphone as a mobile hotspot, or purchase a separate mobile hotspot to reduce your reliance on cellular data. Here are a few resources to help you learn more about these RV Wi-Fi upgrade options:
- Starlink for RV Use
- Do You Need an RV Wi-Fi Hotspot?
- Everything to Know About Cell Signal Boosters
24. Patio Mat
- Price: $
- Value: Three Stars
We love having a patio mat for several reasons. A cute patio mat really can add some coziness to your campsite and really tie everything together. It’s also nice to put over the dirt or grass at a campsite to give you a clean place to walk and keep dirt from being tracked inside the RV. Some campgrounds will have nice concrete patios, but overall, we still like using our patio mat to create our ideal RV outdoor patio.
25. LED & Motion Sensing Lighting
- Price: $
- Value: Two Stars
Most newer RVs have indoor LED lighting, but this is something you can do on your own as well. It’s easy and affordable and also extremely beneficial. Older lighting uses more power, isn’t as bright, and burns at a hotter temperature. Updating your interior lights with LED lighting is much more energy-efficient and brighter and helps keep the RV interior temperature cooler for enhanced comfort. These are also very easy to install being that all you have to do is remove an old bulb and replace it with a new LED bulb.
We’ve also placed motion light strips all over our camper. From inside our closets and pantry to above our kitchen and bathroom sink — these little lights come in handy. They help you see better when getting something out of a cabinet, and they’re also a nice alternative to not turning on bright lights when moving around the camper in the middle of the night.
Find Your RV Upgrades
There you have it—our top 25 RV upgrades! Everyone has a different budget, so consider your finances and what you can set aside for upgrading your RV. New and improved RV products will always be entering the market. Bookmark our Gear & Accessories page to stay updated and in the know about how to find the right gear for your RV. Remember, this list doesn’t cover all the RV modifications you can do, but it should get you started. Check out your local Camping World for all your RV upgrade and renovation needs.
Which RV upgrades are you most excited to make? Are there any we didn’t list? Let us know in the comments below.
Can you provide an estimate for the services cost for the recommended best 25 upgrades?
I’m not very handy and will need to have most of this work done by a services person.
Hi Bryan,
Our service department is your best resources for cost estimates of this nature. You can contact them here: https://rv.campingworld.com/rv-service-maintenance
Hope that helps!