Setting off on the open road with a travel trailer promises freedom and adventure, but unpreparedness can quickly turn that dream into a logistical nightmare. The fundamental answer to “What do I need for my travel trailer?” is a comprehensive set of essential safety equipment, functional necessities for comfortable living, and specialized towing components. This involves considering everything from basic tools and emergency supplies to water management systems and appliances. A well-equipped trailer ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey.
Essential Categories of Travel Trailer Necessities
Equipping your travel trailer is about more than just stocking up on supplies; it’s about creating a mobile, self-sufficient home. This requires a thoughtful approach that prioritizes safety, functionality, and personal comfort. The categories below represent the core elements to consider.
Safety & Towing Equipment
Safety is paramount when towing a travel trailer. The right equipment not only keeps you and your loved ones safe but also protects your investment.
- Towing Mirrors: Extend your field of vision and eliminate blind spots. Adequate visibility is crucial for safe lane changes and maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Brake Controller: Synchronizes your trailer’s brakes with your tow vehicle’s. A functioning brake controller is often legally required and significantly reduces stopping distances.
- Weight Distribution Hitch: Evenly distributes the trailer’s weight across the tow vehicle and trailer axles, improving handling and stability. This is especially important for larger trailers.
- Safety Chains & Breakaway Cable: Provides a secondary connection in case of hitch failure. The breakaway cable automatically applies the trailer brakes if it detaches from the tow vehicle. Never tow without properly connected safety chains and a functional breakaway cable.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Monitors tire pressure and temperature, alerting you to potential problems before they lead to blowouts. Maintaining proper tire pressure is vital for safety and fuel efficiency.
- First Aid Kit & Emergency Roadside Kit: Includes essentials for treating minor injuries and handling common roadside emergencies, such as changing a flat tire or jump-starting a dead battery. Be prepared for the unexpected.
Water Management & Plumbing
Access to clean water and proper waste disposal are essential for comfortable living in a travel trailer.
- Fresh Water Hose (Drinking Water Safe): Delivers potable water from a campground water source to your trailer’s fresh water tank. Ensure the hose is designated for drinking water to avoid contamination.
- Water Filter: Removes sediment and impurities from your water supply, improving taste and protecting your plumbing system. Consider an inline or whole-house filter.
- Sewer Hose & Fittings: Connects your trailer’s waste outlet to a sewer hookup for draining black and gray water tanks. Choose a durable, leak-proof hose with appropriate fittings.
- Tank Treatment Chemicals: Helps break down waste and control odors in your black water tank. Regular use of tank treatment is essential for preventing clogs and maintaining hygiene.
- Water Pressure Regulator: Protects your trailer’s plumbing system from excessive water pressure, which can cause leaks and damage. A regulator is a small investment that can save you significant repair costs.
- Holding Tank Rinser: A device that helps clean out your black water tank after dumping, preventing buildup and odors. Consider a built-in or external tank rinser.
Electrical & Power
Maintaining a reliable power supply is crucial for running appliances, lighting, and other essential systems in your travel trailer.
- RV Extension Cord: Extends your trailer’s electrical hookup to a power pedestal when the standard cord is not long enough. Choose a heavy-duty cord with the appropriate amperage rating.
- Adapters (Dogbone): Allows you to connect to different types of power outlets (e.g., 30 amp to 50 amp or 15 amp to 30 amp). Carry a variety of adapters to accommodate different campground configurations.
- Surge Protector: Protects your trailer’s electrical system from voltage spikes and surges, which can damage sensitive electronics. A surge protector is an essential safety device.
- Battery Monitor: Displays the current state of your battery, allowing you to track usage and avoid over-discharging. Knowing your battery’s status is crucial for boondocking (dry camping).
- Generator (Optional): Provides backup power when you are not connected to shore power. Consider a portable generator if you plan to boondock frequently.
- Solar Panels (Optional): A renewable energy source that can supplement your battery charging, reducing your reliance on generators. Solar panels are an environmentally friendly option for powering your trailer.
Leveling & Stabilization
Creating a level and stable platform for your travel trailer is essential for comfort and preventing damage.
- Leveling Blocks: Used to raise one side of your trailer to achieve a level position. Carry a variety of block sizes to accommodate different terrains.
- Wheel Chocks: Secure your trailer’s wheels to prevent it from rolling while parked. Wheel chocks are an essential safety item.
- Stabilizer Jacks: Extend from the trailer frame to the ground, providing additional support and reducing movement. Stabilizer jacks are not designed to lift the trailer; they are for stabilization only.
- Bubble Level: A simple tool for checking the level of your trailer. Use a bubble level to ensure your trailer is level both side-to-side and front-to-back.
Comfort & Convenience
These items enhance your travel trailer experience, making it feel more like a home away from home.
- RV-Specific Toilet Paper: Designed to break down quickly in your black water tank, preventing clogs. Avoid using regular toilet paper, as it can cause problems.
- Mattress Topper: Improves the comfort of your travel trailer’s mattress. A quality mattress topper can make a significant difference in your sleep quality.
- Kitchen Essentials: Plates, bowls, utensils, cookware, and other items needed for preparing and serving meals. Consider lightweight and space-saving options.
- Outdoor Furniture: Chairs, a table, and a rug for creating a comfortable outdoor living space. Choose durable and weather-resistant materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the first thing I should buy for my new travel trailer?
Prioritize essential safety equipment such as towing mirrors, a brake controller (if not already installed in your tow vehicle), safety chains, and a breakaway cable. These items are crucial for safe towing and legally required in many jurisdictions. Also, a good quality surge protector to protect the electrical system of your RV.
How do I choose the right size of RV extension cord?
Select an RV extension cord with the correct amperage rating for your trailer’s electrical system (typically 30 amp or 50 amp). The cord should also be long enough to reach the power pedestal at most campsites.
What is the difference between black water and gray water?
Black water refers to wastewater from the toilet, while gray water is wastewater from sinks and showers. They are stored in separate tanks and require different treatment.
How often should I empty my travel trailer’s holding tanks?
This depends on usage and tank capacity, but a general guideline is to empty the black water tank every 3-5 days and the gray water tank as needed. Avoid letting the tanks become completely full, as this can lead to odors and potential problems.
Can I use regular garden hoses for my travel trailer’s water system?
No, you should only use drinking water-safe hoses for your fresh water system to avoid contamination. Garden hoses are not designed for potable water and can leach harmful chemicals.
How do I prevent my travel trailer’s pipes from freezing in cold weather?
You can prevent freezing by insulating exposed pipes, using a heated hose, and adding antifreeze to your plumbing system. Consider skirting around the trailer to further insulate it. Some RVs have a built in heated underbelly.
What kind of batteries are typically used in travel trailers?
Travel trailers typically use 12-volt deep-cycle batteries, either lead-acid or lithium-ion. Deep-cycle batteries are designed to provide a steady current over a longer period, which is ideal for powering appliances and lights.
How do I level my travel trailer on uneven ground?
Use leveling blocks under the wheels on the low side of the trailer to raise it to a level position. Use a bubble level to check the level side-to-side and front-to-back.
Do I need a special license to tow a travel trailer?
This depends on the combined weight of your tow vehicle and trailer (Gross Combined Weight Rating – GCWR) and the laws in your state or province. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific requirements.
What is the best way to maintain my travel trailer’s roof?
Regularly inspect the roof for cracks, leaks, and damage. Clean the roof with a mild detergent and apply a sealant as needed to protect it from the elements.
How do I prevent mildew and mold in my travel trailer?
Ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows and vents regularly. Use a dehumidifier if necessary and promptly address any leaks or water damage.
What essential tools should I keep in my travel trailer for repairs?
A basic toolkit should include a socket set, wrench set, screwdrivers, pliers, a multi-meter, duct tape, electrical tape, and a tire pressure gauge. Also, consider adding RV-specific tools like a sewer hose adapter and a water heater drain tool.