Category: RV Reviews

  • 5 Things to Keep in Your RV Pantry

    5 Things to Keep in Your RV Pantry

    The call of the open road and the allure of RV adventures draw us towards scenic escapes and starlit campgrounds. You’re getting out there. Cutting loose. Going lean. So, here’s a quick pit stop for thought: Your RV pantry — often overlooked — is pivotal in fueling your journey. But is it lean and orderly? Or is it out of control and overflowing?

    In short, there’s no need to let pantry chaos slow you down. A well-organized pantry streamlines meal prep, freeing you to enjoy the landscapes and adventures that lie ahead. And at RV Trader, we champion clever use of every inch of your mobile haven, ensuring a smoother ride.

    So let’s dive into our top five RV pantry essentials, curated to keep your kitchen orderly and adventure-ready.

    Storage Bag, Foil, and Plastic Wrap Organizer for an RV Pantry

    Calmbee’s innovative design kicks chaos to the curb.

    Calmbee Storage Bag, Foil, and Plastic Wrap Organizer for an RV Pantry

    Imagine the relief of transforming a cluttered kitchen drawer full of rebellious plastic wrap and Ziploc bags into an organizer’s dream. This bamboo-made organizer is not just a space-saver. It’s a sanity saver for RVers dealing with limited space. Crafted from 100 percent natural bamboo, this organizer stands out with its eco-friendly appeal and superb craftsmanship. Its versatile use, whether wall-mounted or in a drawer, empowers you to choose what works best for your RV kitchen.

    The built-in slider cutter ensures a smooth, hassle-free cut every time. This organizer’s bamboo material doesn’t just offer a sleek and natural look — it brings a piece of the outdoors inside your RV, aligning perfectly with the essence of RV living. It’s a compact yet effective solution for RVers who yearn for a kitchen as that’s a little taste of order in a life of adventure.

    Ultimately, Calmbee’s innovative product is more than an organizer. It’s a full-on declaration of war against kitchen chaos. Which is awesome, because that means your focus can stay on the joys of the journey, not the jumble in your drawers. Its design not only enhances functionality but also elevates the aesthetic of any RV kitchen, making organization a joy rather than a chore.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $49.99.

    Pull Out Spice Rack Organizer

    DABIGE makes spice storage simple and cabinet access smooth.

    DABIGE Pull Out Spice Rack Organizer

    When kitchen space shrinks, this ingenious spice rack organizer makes the most of every inch in our tiny RV galley, turning a cramped cabinet into an organized haven for your spices and miscellaneous RV pantry items. Designed for easy installation and smooth sliding, this spice rack is a testament to practicality and innovation. Its space-saving design can accommodate a variety of spice jars, ensuring everything you need is within reach without sacrificing valuable space in your RV kitchen.

    This rack organizes spices in a compact, accessible manner, allowing RVers to spice up their meals easily and enhancing the culinary experience on the road. This is the gateway to gourmet meals on the go. (If you’re into that kinda thing.) Its ability to slide out effortlessly means no more rummaging through cabinets trying to find that elusive spice, so you can efficiently channel your inner chef, even when galley space is at a premium.

    For the culinary RVer, it’s not just a tool but a companion, ready to assist in whipping up campfire delicacies or roadside gourmet with a simple pull. Adding this organizer to your kitchen setup means improved efficiency and an invitation to explore more diverse and adventurous cooking options on the road.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $24.99.

    Airtight Food Storage Containers

    Vtopmart’s airtight, stackable solution is perfect for any galley’s geometry.

    Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers

    In the confined quarters of an RV, keeping fresh food on hand is necessary for good meals. Vtopmart’s airtight containers keep staples fresh and maximize limited cabinet space during travel. With four sizes (we love options) and a stackable design (we love using vertical space), these containers are customizable to fit any kitchen space. The airtight seal ensures freshness, while the uniform lid sizes add convenience, making them a versatile solution for RVers with different pantry storage needs.

    These containers help streamline kitchen organization, making finding and preparing meals easier. You will spend less time sorting through clutter and more time enjoying your adventure at the kitchen table. (That’s the goal, after all.) These containers are also a visual treat. Their clear design allows easy identification of what’s inside, making meal planning a breeze. They don’t just preserve your food. They maintain your sanity on long trips, ensuring every meal is as fresh as the first.

    Think of them as your pantry’s best friends, keeping your food safe and sound while you navigate the great outdoors. (Also, if a cabinet door swings open unexpectedly, it’s no disaster. Everything is still sealed airtight, even if it tumbles.) By enabling better food organization, these containers help reduce food waste and ensure that every ingredient is used efficiently, making them a must-have for the environmentally conscious RVer.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $31.99.

    Stackable Can Organizer

    This Deco Brothers design makes can organization easy — and sightly.

    Deco Brothers Stackable Can Organizer

    Maximizing storage space is a game-changer in any RV cabinet — especially the kitchen. This sturdy organizer holds up to 36 cans, turning a jumbled mess of cans into an organized display. This makes it easier to grab what you need and, more importantly, see where it is. (Yes!) Durability meets design with this chrome-finished, heavy-gauge steel organizer. Its adjustable dividers and easy assembly make it an indispensable tool for any RVer looking to optimize pantry space.

    With this organizer, you’ll easily see and access your canned goods, simplifying meal prep and reducing the hassle of searching through cluttered cabinets to find just what you’re looking for. The organizer’s sleek design saves space and adds style to your pantry. It’s like having a personal assistant in your kitchen, meticulously organizing your cans so you can quickly grab what you need, and focusing on crafting meals that turn a simple RV dinner into a memorable dining experience.

    It’s not just about saving space but elevating your culinary adventures, one can at a time. The visual organization it provides also helps in planning meals more efficiently, ensuring you have exactly what you need for your recipes minimizing the need for last-minute store runs.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $22.97.

    Over the Door RV Pantry Organizer

    Delamu discovers unused RV space and puts it to kitchen work.

    Delamu Over the Door Pantry Organizer

    For the chef in every RVer, this over the door pantry organizer is a spice, jar and can lifesaver. It takes advantage of our absolute favorite thing: unused RV space, transforming any door into a clever, space-saving pantry. Its durable metal construction and adjustable baskets make it versatile and sturdy enough to hold various pantry items securely.

    This organizer expands storage options without taking up valuable floor space, making it easier to keep pantry essentials organized and accessible, even in the tiniest of kitchens. Its adaptability makes it a perfect match for any RV, transforming unused door space into a treasure trove of culinary possibilities. This organizer isn’t just about storage. It’s about creating opportunities for more creative cooking and less clutter. It invites you to think outside the box — or, in this case, the cabinet — bringing order and inspiration to your RV kitchen with every mile you travel.

    Leveraging vertical space offers a novel solution to the common problem of limited storage, opening new possibilities for organizing and accessing your cooking essentials. This organizer turns the challenge of small space living into an opportunity to enhance your RV lifestyle, making it easier to enjoy the flavors of home on the road.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $36.99.

    Unlocking the Secrets to a Streamlined RV Kitchen

    Hitting the open road isn’t just about the thrill of the journey — it involves mastering the art of packing and organizing. Those pantry staples? They’re your best friends in keeping your kitchen tip-top shape, ensuring whipping meals is as breezy as the drive. As you plan your next escape, remember that a shipshape RV pantry is your golden ticket to a seamless and delightful RV adventure. It’s the behind-the-scenes hero that makes life on the move feel like a breeze.

    This article includes affiliate links that generate small referral commissions for RV Trader.

  • 7 Things Every RV Hiker Should Keep in Their Backpack

    7 Things Every RV Hiker Should Keep in Their Backpack

    When dreaming of the perfect hike, you might see yourself conquering the trails with confidence on your quest toward a vibrant vista. But when you’re unprepared, sometimes the trails conquer you, causing an inconvenience at best and safety risks at worst. You can only pack so many supplies, so it takes careful planning before you set out on your next trip. RV Trader has seven items to keep in your backpack so you can face whatever the trails throw your way.

    Shop new and pre-owned truck campers for sale online.

     

     

    Portable Power Bank
    Portable Power Bank

    1. Portable Power Bank

    You’re halfway through your hike and want to take some photos. You pull your phone out only to realize it’s dead. But not for long! Thanks to this portable power bank, you’ll be getting ‘gram-worthy photos in a flash.

    One of the slimmest portable chargers on the market, this power bank charges small electronics quickly and safely. It’s ideal for short and long hikes alike, as it holds enough power for multiple charges.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $20.

     

    Collapsible Trekking Poles
    Collapsible Trekking Poles

    2. Collapsible Trekking Poles

    Whether your trek is tricky or tranquil, you never know when you’ll need a little extra support. Stay light on your feet with these collapsible trekking poles that fit perfectly in your backpack.

    Though they weigh less than a pound, reviewers swear they’re still sturdy and functional. A variety of foot attachments let you handle changing terrains and trail conditions, and the cork handles reduce sweaty grips for added safety. When not in use, they fold down for compact storage.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $44.

     

     

    Satellite Communicator
    Satellite Communicator

    3. Handheld Satellite Communicator

    Going off-grid doesn’t mean your communication has to. In the backcountry, you’ll be hard-pressed for reliable cell service if you need help or medical attention. These satellite communicators ensure that first response is always on hand.

    When texting, it shares your most recent location with the recipient. It also leaves breadcrumbs so you can find your route when you’re lost. For extreme situations, there’s an SOS button to call a search and rescue team.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $385.

     

    Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle
    Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle

    4. Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle

    Temps are rising, you have several hours left of your hike, and you’re already almost out of water. Or are you? Pack this water filter bottle from Lifestraw, and you won’t even have to ask.

    From stagnant puddles to swift rivers to tap water in a foreign country, this bottle turns any source of water into a hydration station. When drinking, the two-layer straw filter removes 99% of contaminants, including harmful parasites, bacteria, and microplastics. Dubbed “the ultimate sidekick,” the filter lasts a minimum of two months and clips to your backpack with a convenient carabiner.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $40.

     

    Compact First Aid Kit
    Compact First Aid Kit

    5. Compact First Aid Kit

    While we can’t help you nurse your pride if you trip on the trail, we can recommend the perfect first aid kit to fix your cuts and scrapes.

    This 110-piece first aid kit weighs less than half a pound, but includes everything you need for minor injuries: bandages, gauzes, scissors, antiseptic wipes, tape, and more. For situations more critical, there’s also a CPR respirator and thermal blanket. 

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $14.

     

    Compact Emergency Tent
    Compact Emergency Tent

    6. Compact Emergency Tent

    We love a good multi-purpose tool. Want to scale a fish while cracking open a cold one? There’s a Swiss Army knife for that. If you’re stuck on the trails and need to stay dry and warm? There’s a soda-can size emergency tent for that.

    As a temporary shelter, it sets up easily between two trees and can fit two people comfortably. If trees aren’t available, you can use it as a waterproof sleeping bag that reflects up to 90% of your body heat to help prevent hypothermia. And, if you’re in an extreme survival situation, the paracord and drawstring are flammable enough to be used as fire kindling.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $20.

     

    Compact Fire Starting Kit
    Compact Fire Starting Kit

    7. Compact Fire Starting Kit

    Few things are better than sitting by a cozy campfire after a hard day’s hike. But matches can get wet and lighters can leak. But this hassle-free set of compact fire starter sticks can fit just as easily in your backpocket.

    Each stick features a ferrocerium (or, “ferro”) rod and detachable metal striker good for up to 8,000 strikes. When assembled, o-rings create a waterproof seal to keep the rod dry, while holes in each end allow you to attach them to a lanyard or carabiner.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $10.

    Find new and used travel trailers for sale online.

    With these tools in your backpack, you can ensure your hike is one to remember for all the right reasons. Check out our blog for more outdoor tips, advice, and product recommendations for happy hiking! And visit RVTrader.com for the nation’s largest network of new and used RV from dealers and private sellers.

     

    This article includes affiliate links that generate small referral commissions for RV Trader.

  • Top Roadside Assistance Items to Keep in Your RV

    Top Roadside Assistance Items to Keep in Your RV

    Your dream vacation in your RV might include camping, outdoor recreation, and miles of open road. While breakdowns can be an RVer’s worst nightmare, you’re not helpless when you’ve got a back-up plan and the right supplies for on-the-road repairs. RV Trader recommends these roadside assistance tools for your vehicle so you can stay safe and be prepared for the most adverse conditions out there.

    Shop for new and pre-owned pop up campers for sale online.

     

     

    Tow Straps
    Tow Straps

    1. Tow Straps

    Gnarly weather has you stuck in a muddy ditch or axle-deep in a snowbank. Hey, we’re all about taking the road less traveled, but RVs aren’t exactly made for roads that…well, aren’t roads at all. What can you do? With these handy tow straps, you won’t have to spin your wheels to figure it out.

    Your RV has a bit of weight to it, so you need heavy-duty tow straps that won’t shred during use. Made with high-density polyester/silk webbing and triple-reinforced loops on both ends, the connection between your RV and the towing vehicle stays strong even after multiple uses.

    They’re also weather resistant, making them perfect for RV adventures year-round, and protective sleeves guard against any sharp or rough edges on the vehicles using them.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $36.

     

    Hazard Triangles
    Hazard Triangles

    2. Hazard Triangles

    A busy interstate. A one-lane gravel road. When you have no choice but to pull over to the side of the road, you might not have much room. To keep you and other drivers safe, err on the side of caution and make yourself as visible as possible with these DOT-approved hazard triangles.

    Each 17”x17” triangle features reflective panels and fluorescent plates that offer maximum visibility day or night. Thanks to a rotating base filled with sand, they can stay upright during bad weather, and reviewers rave about how fast and easy they are to set up. When not in use, they collapse into a slim hardcover carrying case for storage.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $32.

     

     

    Tire Repair Kit
    Tire Repair Kit

    3. Tire Repair Kit 

    Sometimes when rubber meets the road, it also meets objects in the road. And if your RVing goal is to “get away from it all,” the last thing you need is your tire losing air from a sharp object. If that happens, this small-but-mighty tire repair kit will help patch things up.

    With 68 pieces, the kit has all the tools you need to plug your pierced paddywagon. One reviewer even called it the “MacGyver of tire repair” because it provides a quick, easy, and economical solution to what is often an expensive repair. Its convenient carrying case keeps everything organized, and for newbies to patching tires, a step-by-step picture manual takes the pressure off figuring it out.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $21.

     

    Rechargeable LED Flares
    Rechargeable LED Flares

    4. Rechargeable LED Road Flares

    If you’re forced to pull over and stay awhile, it’s a bright idea to have these LED emergency road flares on hand to help you and oncoming traffic stay safe during a roadside stop. 

    Designed for all weather conditions, they’re visible up to 1 mile away and can last up to 48 hours depending on which of the nine different flash modes you choose. No batteries are required either; simply plug the discs into a USB port (cord is provided) until they flash green indicating a full charge. Safety made simple!

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $20.

     

    Tire Chains
    TIre Chains

    5. Tire Chains

    Dreaming of a snow-covered forest over a majestic mountain range? You just might have to white-knuckle the roads through winter weather to get there. When winter fires up, keep your cool with this sturdy set of tire chains.

    Color-coded connections help even the most novice users assemble it quickly and confidently, and unlike many other traditional tire chains, you won’t need to lay on the ground or suffer prolonged exposure to the elements if you’re installing them during bad weather. 

    While in use, the mesh design minimizes bumps and provides traction on even the slickest of surfaces. But what really puts the ice-ing on the cake? The built-in adjustment system and pair of protective gloves means no other tools are required.

    Pricing starts on Amazon at $70.

    Find new and used Class A motorhomes for sale online.

    These handy tools will let you cruise with confidence no matter where your travels take you. Do you have must-have roadside assistance items that aren’t listed? Share your favorites in the comments and don’t forget to check our blog for more tips on RV living. 

    If you’re on the market for your next vehicle, be sure to explore the largest inventory available nationwide from dealers and private sellers at RVTrader.com.

     

    This article includes affiliate links that generate small referral commissions for RV Trader.