RVing may be an adventure, but let’s not sugarcoat every aspect of it. Exhibit A: Dumping your tanks — that can be …. a dirty job. Necessary as it is, you’ll want to make it less dreadful (and hopefully mess-free). And one of the best ways to do it is to ensure you have a top-quality RV sewer hose, affectionately known in the RV world as a stinky slinky. With the right hose, you can handle the dirty work with confidence, ensuring your travels stay smooth and sanitary. But different stinky slinkies do have different strengths.
So, let’s dive into the top five stinky slinkies — and get you some must-know tips for keeping this essential RV task manageable.
1. The Space Saver – Camco RhinoFLEX Sewer Hose Kit
Why It’s Great: The Camco RhinoFLEX is a favorite among RVers for its unbeatable balance of durability, flexibility, and ease of use. Its rigid yet collapsible design makes it convenient to store and handle, even in tight spaces. It is versatile and holds up to frequent use. In short, there’s a reason why it’s a top seller on Amazon.
Key Features:
- The 15-foot hose compresses to just 52 inches for compact storage, which makes it perfect for RVs with limited storage space.
- Comes with pre-attached swivel fittings, a clear elbow, and a four-in-one dump station adapter for added convenience.
- Made from puncture-resistant materials, ensuring it holds up to frequent use.
Pro Tip: Carrying two 10-foot hoses, like this one, gives you added flexibility for awkwardly placed dump stations. This hose offers the perfect balance of flexibility and reliability, making it a favorite choice for many RV owners.
2. The Tough Customer – Thetford Titan Sewer Hose Kit
Why It’s Great: Built to handle extreme conditions, the Thetford Titan is a rugged and reliable choice for RVers who demand durability. Whether you’re camping in subzero temperatures or navigating tough terrains, this hose can take it all. It’s made with heavy-duty materials that stand up to the elements, ensuring long-lasting performance. Personally, I try to avoid leaving any hose out in subfreezing temperatures though, as you can experience the “poopsicle”.
Key Features:
- This 20-foot hose (two 10-foot hoses connected) is made from tough TPE material for superior resistance to wear and tear.
- Ergonomic, secure fittings ensure a leak-free connection, preventing accidents while you’re handling your waste. Sometimes less is more. If you are close to the dump site, then it can be more convenient to only use one of the 10-foot hoses.
- Universal adapter and handle make the dumping process easy and mess-free, so you can get in and out of the dump station quickly.
Pro Tip: The Titan is perfect for full-time RVers or anyone who frequently camps in harsh conditions. Its durability means it’s ready for whatever the road throws at you. It’s an investment in reliability, and the peace of mind it provides is well worth the extra cost.
3. The Master of Maneuver – Valterra Viper Sewer Hose Kit
Why It’s Great: The Valterra Viper stands out for its kink-resistant design, making it one of the easiest hoses to maneuver. If you’ve ever wrestled with a hose that twists and tangles, you’ll appreciate the Viper’s smooth handling. It’s perfect for RVers who want a no-fuss hose that stays flexible even in cold weather, providing ultimate convenience.
Key Features:
- This 20-foot hose (two 10-foot hoses connected) comes with crush-proof rotating fittings for reliable, stress-free connections.
- Abrasion-resistant material and UV protection ensure long-lasting use, even in harsh conditions.
- Designed to maintain its shape and resist kinks, even during tough setups, reducing the frustration of twisted hoses.
Pro Tip: The extra length makes this hose ideal for sites where dump stations are farther away, but its kink-free design ensures you won’t lose your cool trying to set it up. It’s a great option for RVers who need a hose that won’t kink, crack, or get tangled.
4. The Safe Option – Camco Revolution Sewer Hose Kit
Why It’s Great: This all-around reliable option combines flexibility, strength, and convenient storage, making it perfect for RVers of all experience levels. The Camco Revolution is easy to use and store, with features that simplify the process for everyone. If you want a hose that gets the job done without any fuss, this is a top contender.
Key Features:
- This 20-foot hose (two 10-foot hoses connected) collapses for compact storage, fitting easily into most RV compartments.
- Swivel fittings offer 360-degree rotation for versatile connections, allowing you to maneuver it into position easily.
- Includes a transparent elbow to monitor waste flow during dumping, adding an extra layer of peace of mind.
Pro Tip: If you want a straightforward and versatile sewer hose that covers all the basics while still being user-friendly, the Camco Revolution is an excellent choice. It’s a great middle-ground option that combines convenience with functionality.
5. The Deluxe Dumper – Lippert Waste Master Extended RV Sewer Hose
Why It’s Great: The Lippert Waste Master is the luxury model of sewer hoses, designed for RVers who want the best of the best. With its high-end build and innovative features, it makes dumping tanks as streamlined as possible. This hose is all about providing a premium experience, making waste management easier and cleaner.
Key Features:
- Pre-installed cam lock system prevents leaks and ensures a secure connection, keeping everything tight and safe.
- This 20-foot hose is made from heavy-duty material with a smooth interior for easy cleaning, which prevents build-up and maintains cleanliness.
- Integrated shutoff valve for extra control and cleanliness during use, giving you more power over the entire dumping process.
Extra Advice: The price tag on this stinky slinky may cause you to use it immediately, but for those willing to splurge, it’s the “Tesla” of stinky slinkies — high-tech, smooth, and it may be worth it for serious RV enthusiasts who want the top of the line. If you’re looking for top-tier quality, this hose does not disappoint.
Pro Tip: This comes with a shut off valve at the end, and using that can sometimes be quicker and easier to get to than your shut off valve on the RV.
Bonus Tip: Get a Clear Sewer Hose Adapter
When it comes to managing your tanks, a clear adapter is more than a helpful accessory—it’s a game-changer. I suggest pairing any of these hoses with a clear adapter to avoid any “poopsie” surprises when you open the cap. Sometimes your release valve can open unexpectedly, and that can lead to a really nasty surprise. Not only does it help with unpleasant surprises when you first open the cap, but it lets you see when your tank is empty.
Key Considerations When Shopping Stinky Slinkies
- Material Matters. Look for crush-proof, abrasion-resistant materials for longevity.
- Length. Hoses typically range from 10 to 25 feet. Choose one that suits your usual camping setup. Many seasoned RVers like the two 10-foot hose option if space isn’t an issue, because of the versatility and ease.
- Storage Options. Collapsible designs are ideal for tight RV compartments.
- Durability. Prioritize a sturdy, reliable hose over a cheap option that might fail at the worst time.
The Right Stinky Slinkies for Smoother Dumps
With the right stinky slinky in hand, managing your RV’s waste system doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. (OK … maybe it still is.) But by investing in a reliable sewer hose and a few smart accessories, you’ll be ready to handle tank duties like a pro — leaving you more time to enjoy the road ahead! (And for those that may need a quick tutorial on dumping, feel free to watch me go through the steps.)
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